Iconic Knife Angel sculpture is coming to Hertfordshire

This October, the iconic Knife Angel sculpture will be arriving in Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, as part of a national campaign to raise awareness about knife crime and violence.

Together, Hertfordshire Constabulary and Herts Sport & Physical Activity Partnership are calling on grassroots clubs across Hertfordshire to lead the way in standing up against violence — and are encouraging all sports clubs, organisations and community groups to be involved.

Created by artist Alfie Bradley at the British Ironwork Centre, the Knife Angel will be on display in Welwyn Garden City throughout October and aims to raise awareness about the consequences of knife crime and violence and to spark conversations about the need for social change and peace. The 27-foot sculpture has been crafted from more than 100,000 knives and blades confiscated by the UK's 43 police forces and will be used to launch a month-long programme of intensive anti-violence youth engagement, within Welwyn Hatfield and across the county. A knife amnesty will also run alongside it to raise awareness and bring about a positive change within communities, especially amongst young people.

Here’s how your sports club / organisation can get involved:

• Visit the Knife Angel and take a team photo
• Take a team photo during training or before or after a match
• Use the “Lives Not Knives” football/basketball/rugby ball in your photo (supplied by Herts Police, more details below)
• Post your photo on social media to show your support and raise awareness
• Encourage young people to sign up as Anti-Violence Ambassadors

As part of the contract to host the Knife Angel, Hertfordshire has committed to recruit 10,000 young Anti-violence Champions - someone who completely renounces violent and aggressive behaviour as a means to solve issues, disputes and difficulties. Anti-Violence Champions will support the Knife Angel and its legacy by standing up against all forms of violent behaviour. They make the conscious decision to solve all problems in a peaceful and non-physical manner. The Champions will play an integral and extremely important part in the Knife Angel’s journey to create social change.

Sign up to become an Anti-violence Champion

Download the Anti-violence Champions leaflet find out more.

If your club would like to take part or request a Lives Not Knives ball, please contact KnifeAngel@herts.police.uk.

Let’s work together to build a safer, stronger Hertfordshire.