First pictures emerge as 'imposing' Knife Angel arrives in Blackburn

The Knife Angel sculpture, made from 100,000 seized knives and blades, is a partnership between the Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office, Lancashire Violence Reduction Network, Blackburn Cathedral and Blackburn with Darwen Council, and brings with it a month-long knife crime awareness and education programme.

Lisa Morton, from Blackburn, who was shopping with her two children said: "It's pretty imposing, I didn't think it would be that big seeing the photos of it online - it's definitely a showpiece and will get people talking.

"I think with the reports of knife crime, in Blackburn in particular, it seems like a good time to have something like this stationed here."

One passer by said: "Wow, it looks absolutely amazing, it's beautiful."

Here the #KnifeAngel will stand for the whole of November, bringing with it a month of education workshops and activities to raise awareness of the devastating impacts of knife crime. Find out more: https://t.co/PDwMtF66NB

— Knife Angel Lancashire (@knifeangellancs) November 2, 2021

While Phil Graham from Accrington, who was with his wife Ursula, said: "It's becoming an epidemic, people are going around knifing other people, and for what? For nothing. I think it's very important to highlight knife crime."

Created by the British Ironworks Centre, the statue aims to highlight the negative effects of violent behaviour, and will be accompanied by a schedule of activity taking place throughout November.

Already, a range of school and community groups from across Lancashire have booked onto the free activities.

To officially mark the start of the Knife Angel Lancashire education programme, a candle-lit peace vigil will be held at the Cathedral on Thursday, beginning at 5.45pm.

Leader of Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council, Cllr Mohammed Khan said: "I am thankful that Blackburn has been able to host this amazing artwork that acts as a conversation starter around why people carry knives as weapons.

"I would urge everyone to come into Blackburn town centre to see this imposing artwork up close, and to get involved in the various awareness and education activities.

"Taking part may just help you start a conversation that deters someone from knife crime and potentially saves lives."

A knife box will be sited next to the sculpture with the aim of encouraging anyone who carries a knife to surrender their blade.

The Knife Angel will be in position outside Blackburn Cathedral until November 29.