A stunning angel sculpture made of 100,000 knives comes to Sandwell, but only for a short time

The Knife Angel, designed to raise awareness about the impact of knife crime, had its opening ceremony in Sandwell, on 3rd October .

The sculpture is composed of around 100,000 blunted knives collected by police forces across the country. Touring the UK since 2018, it stands at 27 feet tall and weighs 3.5 tonnes.

Throughout October, Sandwell Borough Council will host events to promote peace and educate young people about the dangers of knife crime and prevention methods.

They will also hold a photography competition seeking the best photos of the statue that symbolise unity and non-violence.

Leader of Sandwell Council, Councillor Kerrie Carmichael, said: “Knife-related crime is a concern across the UK, and it is important that we do all we can here in Sandwell to make sure people choose life, not knife.

“Most people do not carry knives; most young people do not carry knives. But we need anyone who does, or is tempted to carry a knife, to turn their back on a choice that could cost their or another person’s life.

“This thought-provoking Knife Angel is a reminder of the real and tragic consequences of knife crime and will hopefully start conversations within families, among friends and in the community.

“This campaign seeks to engage every member of the Sandwell community – schools, families, businesses and local organisations – in a collective mission. We will honour those impacted by violence, educate the public, raise awareness of personal safety and take meaningful action to create a safer, more peaceful future.”

Sandwell Police commander, Chief Superintendent Kim Madill, said: "Knives can ruin lives and we're working with partners to keep our streets safe.

"We're doing this through both enforcement and education and the Knife Angel sends out a powerful message which should resonate across communities.

"We're committed to doing all we can to prevent the devastating consequences which can be caused by carrying a weapon. Actions in the heat of the moment can lead to the tragic loss of life and someone else ruining their own life too.”

The Knife Angel sculpture has been brought to the borough by Sandwell Council and the Safer Sandwell Partnership working together with British Ironwork Centre, West Midlands Police and the West Midlands Violence Reduction Partnership (VRP).

The Knife Angel’s stay in Sandwell will conclude on October 29th with a closing ceremony from 4-6pm.

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