The bee has landed!
A THOUGHT-PROVOKING anti-violence monument has arrived in Derbyshire as it begins its county tour.
The 11ft tall bee monument, which today can be seen at Morrisons in Swadlincote, was originally created for Manchester, using various weapons, including knives and firearms, seized from the city’s streets.
The monument represents a firm stance against all forms of violence and the visit is set to highlight the force’s dedication to preventing, and talking about, acts of violence.
While it is in Derbyshire, police officers will be on hand to give advice, answer any questions and talk to visitors.
The aim is to prevent violence through a dedicated campaign which seeks to spread the anti-violence message across
Derbyshire and beyond.
It is hoped the bee will also get people thinking and talking about the issues affecting their communities and what they can do if they have concerns.
It follows the success of the
Knife Angel’s visit to Derbyshire, which is made by the same company.
The bee will also be spreading its wings and its messaging to youngsters in a number of schools and colleges during its month-long trek across Derbyshire.
Knitters and crafters have also been sending in hand-made bees, and whilst visitors are speaking to officers there will be the chance to grab one of these, which will contain anti-violence messaging, and sign up to the police’s e-mail alert system, Derbyshire Alert.
Anyone who picks up one of the bees is encouraged to share their photos and engage with police on social media, tagging Derbyshire Constabulary and using the hashtag #Beeunitedagainstviolence. The tour is expected to be as follows: Today: Morrisons, Swadlincote. Sunday: Ripley Christmas Market Thursday, December 1: Southgate Retail Park
Saturday, December 3: Moorways Sport Complex
Sunday and Monday December 4 & 5: Cathedral Green, Derby Tuesday, December 6: Tesco, Long Eaton Wednesday, December 7: Market Place, Ilkeston Thursday, December 8: Book Café, Belper (morning) Saturday, December 10: Thornbridge Hall Estate Tuesday December, 13: Bolsover War Memorial Wednesday, December 14: Chesterfield Town Centre Thursday, December 15: Crich Tramway Museum
Friday, December 16: Severn Square, Alfreton.
Saturday and Sunday, December 17&18: Cromford Mills
Monday 19 December: Buxton town centre
Wednesday, December 21: Hall Leys Park, Matlock town centre