The Knife Angel is coming
Derby has been chosen to be one of the cities across the country to host the National Monument Against Violence and Aggression - the 'Knife Angel'.
The spectacular 27ft sculpture, made from up to 100,000 bladed weapons collected in knife banks during police amnesties across the country, will be based next to Bondholder Derby Cathedral for 28 days in October.
The Knife Angel is being brought to Derby by a group of agencies and organisations across the city, including Bondholders Derby Cathedral, Derbyshire Police, Derby City Council and Police and Crime Commissioner Hardyal Dhindsa.
Other Bondholders who have offered their help and expertise include Bowmer and Kirkland, Mercia Image Ltd, Work Wallet and G Wathall and Son Ltd.
Created in collaboration with all 43 police forces, the Home Office, Anti-violence groups and hundreds of families who have been affected by knife crime, the monument is a symbol of the nation’s intolerance to violence and aggression. It was created by the British Ironwork Centre, by sculptor Alfie Bradley to highlight the impact knife crime has on people, families and communities.
Relatives of those killed by knife crime were invited to engrave the blades with names and messages for their loved ones as part of the sculpture. One such relative is local woman, Rachel Webb. Rachel’s son, Tom, was 22-years-old when he was stabbed and killed in St Peter’s Street, Derby in 2016.
Rachel said: “I am thrilled to learn that the Knife Angel is coming to Derby. It’s an emotive thought-provoking monument, which is helping to educate and raise awareness of the increasing knife crime epidemic on Britain’s streets."
They are also keen for other volunteers to be involved in the project, particularly in being able to act as information marshals at the sculpture. Full training will be provided and anyone interested is urged to make contact.
If you are interested in volunteering or represent a group that would like to be interested in the programme of activities please contact the organising group on knifeangel@derbycathedral.org