The Knife Angel sculpture, which has been touring towns and cities across the UK including many cathedrals, is coming to Leicester Cathedral. It will be on display in the grounds of the Cathedral from 2 to 29 May.
The Knife Angel project has now been building for over six years with the monument taking two years to make and stands 20 feet tall (up to 27 feet with a high plinth). It is made from over 100,000 knives which have been taken out of circulation and collected by all 43 UK Police Constabularies as supported by the Home Office. It is a response to the problem of Knife Crime and Violence and Aggression in our society and has been specifically formed to create social change against all forms of violent behaviour. It is made by Clive Knowles and his team at the British Ironwork Centre in Shropshire with sculptor Alfie Bradley (More info here).
Previous sites for the sculpture include Coventry and Derby Cathedrals.
The Knife Angel has been brought to the city following an appeal for help with the costs and services needed to make the event happen. The Cathedral is working with the City Council, Leicester City Football Club, The Police and the Police and Crime Commissioner and many others.
Revd Alison Adams, Sub Dean of the Cathedral said: “Knife crime is a huge issue for our society today and not a day goes by without reports of stabbings that have a profound effect on the lives of victims and their families. The Knife Angel is a very real and visible response to this issue.
“We will be bringing together a programme of activities to draw attention to the impact of knife crime and to help empower those who are most vulnerable, especially young people from across our communities.
“In addition, the Cathedral will host a Book of Reflections and a Memorial Service for those who have experienced knife crime. We are grateful to all those who have supported this event.”
The British Ironwork Centre facilitate the Angel going to towns and cities across the UK in order to undertake 28-days of intensive youth engagement workshops and programmes. This offers children and young people the chance to get the best education regarding anti-violence information and awareness. This will be a citywide effort, combining multiple partners and agencies.