Knife Angel arrives in Shrewsbury

One of the UK's most powerful symbols against violence will arrive in Shrewsbury this week as the town prepares to host the nationally acclaimed Knife Angel sculpture for six weeks.

The striking 27ft artwork, created from more than 100,000 seized knives and blades collected by police forces from across the country, will be installed in The Square on Wednesday 17 June and will remain in Shrewsbury until Friday 31 July.

The Knife Angel is travelling to Shrewsbury from Sohom in Cambridgeshire as part of its National Youth Anti-Violence Educational Programme and tour organised by the British Ironworks Centre. The sculpture was created to raise awareness of the devastating impact of knife crime and violence, encourage meaningful conversations within communities, and inspire positive action to help make communities safer.

Designed and created by sculptor Alfie Bradley at the British Ironworks Centre in Oswestry, the Knife Angel has become a nationally recognised monument to those affected by knife crime. The sculpture honours victims, acknowledges the lasting impact on families and communities, and provides a focal point for education, reflection and engagement.

Helen Ball, Town Clerk for Shrewsbury Town Council, said:

We are honoured to welcome the Knife Angel to Shrewsbury for the next six weeks. As one of the most recognisable anti-violence monuments in the country, it carries a powerful message about the devastating impact of knife crime and the importance of working together to create safer communities.

Its presence in the heart of our town will provide an opportunity for reflection, conversation and learning, and we look forward to welcoming residents, schools, community groups and visitors to engage with the sculpture and its important message during its stay in Shrewsbury."

Clive Knowles, Chairman of British Ironworks, said:

The Knife Angel was created to give communities a platform to address the issue of knife crime and to honour those whose lives have been affected by violence.

Every location on the tour plays an important role in helping to spread this message, and we are delighted that Shrewsbury is joining the growing number of towns and cities standing together against violence."

Shrewsbury Town Council is working closely with local partners, schools, community organisations and support services to maximise the impact of the Knife Angel's visit and ensure its message reaches as many people as possible.

A series of activities and events are currently being planned by Shrewsbury Town Council and its partners to accompany the sculpture's stay in Shrewsbury.

Further is available by visiting:

https://www.shrewsburytowncouncil.gov.uk/knife-angel-visits-shrewsbury