Knife Angel sculpture to raise awareness of knife crime arrives in Ely
Monument aims to educate and engage communities
A 27-foot Knife Angel monument, crafted from over 100,000 confiscated blades, is set to take centre stage in Ely, Cambridgeshire from 20th May to 17th June.
The sculpture, known for its impactful message against knife crime, will be located at Palace Green opposite Ely Cathedral and will be open to the public seven days a week, free of charge.
The monument's opening ceremony on 20th May will feature speakers such as High Sheriff Frances Burkitt, Police and Crime Commissioner Darryl Preston, and will include performances and discussions led by campaigner Quinton Green.
The Knife Angel was created by sculptor Alfie Bradley at the British Ironwork Centre and serves as a poignant reminder of the human toll exacted by knife crime. Its visit to Cambridgeshire marks its first appearance in the county and corresponds with a knife amnesty initiative, encouraging individuals to safely relinquish weapons.
Educational efforts during the statue's presence will focus on engaging young people, with secondary school workshops scheduled for 2nd, 9th, and 16th June. These efforts aim to foster early intervention and raise awareness about the impact and dangers of knife crime.
This initiative is being led by Soham Town Rangers Football Club in collaboration with entities like the police, Cambridgeshire County Council, and Ely Cathedral. The project has garnered support from local businesses and has received funding from the National Lottery.
Soham Town Rangers FC Chairman, Jonathan James, said: “Knife Crime, particularly among young people, is a problem across all parts of the country and as football is a force for good, we are able to play our part in highlighting the danger and impact that it has on communities.
“We have partnered with the local authorities and emergency services and are pleased to be able to highlight the vital work that they all do on a daily basis.”
Police and Crime Commissioner, Darryl Preston said: "I welcome the Knife Angel to Cambridgeshire. Its message of anti-violence is clear and moving.
"Whilst we may not have the scale of knife crime that is seen in some parts of the country, sadly Cambridgeshire and Peterborough are not immune to these issues.
"Hosting the Knife Angel will illustrate to communities, in Ely and across the wider county, the devastating effect of knife crime. It's also an opportunity to engage our communities, particularly young people, to make them more aware of the risks and consequences of knife carrying.
"I will continue to work with partners to support their efforts to prevent serious violence."
Encouraging meaningful discussion and education, the Knife Angel’s visit seeks to inform the public about the consequences of carrying knives and promote collective action against violence.