The Knife Angel Arrives in Cumbria: 100,000 Knives Forged into a Powerful Message
A towering statue made from 100,000 confiscated knives, known as the Knife Angel, is coming to Cumbria for the next two months. First, it will stand tall in Carlisle from December 2021, then move to Barrow in January 2022.
Powerful Sculpture Tackles Knife Crime
Created by the British Ironworks Centre, the Knife Angel shines a harsh light on the devastating effects of violent behaviour. Carlisle’s city centre pedestrian zone will host the installation, starting with its unveiling by the Market Cross Monument on 1 December.
Cumbria Joins the National Anti-Violence Tour
Cumbria County Council, Cumbria Police, Carlisle City Council, and Barrow Borough Council teamed up to bring this unique art to the region. This marks the furthest north the Knife Angel has travelled on its UK tour.
Sergeant Chris Blain of Cumbria Police said:
“We’re pleased the Knife Angel is coming to Carlisle in December. Its visit launches a month-long awareness programme across schools and organisations. It coincides with Operation Divan, focusing on the dangers and consequences of carrying knives or weapons.
“During December, we’re running a Knife/Weapon amnesty where the public can hand in weapons anonymously as part of Operation Sceptre. Alongside this, we’ll deliver anti-violence initiatives with partners.
“While knife crime hasn’t risen significantly here, we must stay aware of its impacts on individuals, families, and communities.”
Strong Warnings from Officials
Cumbria’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Peter McCall, added:
“Though we don’t have the knife crime levels of big cities, we do face the same devastating impacts on victims and communities.
“Bringing the Knife Angel to Cumbria is a great way to raise awareness of knife crime and its ripple effects.
“Carrying knives won’t be tolerated here. Anyone caught faces serious consequences. I urge those tempted to carry weapons to use the knife amnesty to hand them in safely.”
“Victims should report knife crimes on 101 or 999 in emergencies. If you prefer, Victim Support offers help and advice on 0300 303 0157, 8am-6pm.”
Local Leaders Back Education and Hope
Deborah Earl, Cumbria County Councillor, said:
“We warmly welcome the Knife Angel’s presence in Carlisle and Barrow. It stands as a haunting memorial to the terrible toll of knife crime.
“Funding has been approved for a city-wide school programme this spring to educate young people on this vital issue.
“We hope the Angel offers families affected by violence a beacon of hope over the difficult Christmas period.”
Councillor Elizabeth Mallinson, Chair of the North Cumbria Community Safety Partnership, added:
“We’re proud to support this initiative. It shines a spotlight on knife crime’s deadly impact on communities and families.
The Knife Angel will form part of a wider programme offering practical support and advice.”
More About the Knife Angel
The Knife Angel is touring the UK to raise awareness and combat violence. For more details on its origins and nationwide tour, visit the British Ironworks Centre’s website.
