Hundreds turn out in support of battle against knife crime
HUNDREDS of people turned out to take part in a protest against knife crime in Derby city centre.
The event took place from midday on Saturday, beginning at the Council House.
From there those who took part in the Walk Against Knife Crime made their way through the city centre and headed for the Spot.
There were speeches and chanting from supporters aiming to raise awareness about the dangers of knives.
Following speeches at the Spot, those involved then made their way back to the Council House as they continued to share their message.
Calvin Bowler, 36, from California, said he took part in the walk because of the increasing number of people falling victim to knife crime.
He said the people of Derby needed to show their support in order to stop the problem getting worse. Speaking at the event, he said: “We set up the group Walk Against Knife Crime in Derby because people are sick of it in Derby, as well as the UK.
“Knife crime is absolutely brutal. It is killing our kids and we have had enough, so we are trying our best to do something.
“The turnout could have been better. The last 48 hours, we lost five acts. The rain has not helped up but I’m so happy with everyone who has turned up.
“The numbers were surprising with the weather, so I’m happy.
“My brother got stabbed in the year 2000. Back then social media wasn’t as powerful or as big, so going forward that is our platform. “We just want to raise awareness about the current issue with knife crime. We will be back next year at the velodrome. Derby City Council have agreed. This is only going to get bigger and better, so see you next year.”
The protest was held to coincide with the second anniversary of the
Knife Angel’s visit to Derby. In October 2019, the impressive 27ft sculpture, made up of 100,000 bladed weapons, was placed outside Derby Cathedral, standing as a symbol against knife crime and a memorial for lives lost to acts of violence.
Hundreds of people turned out as it was unveiled in the city and more than 90,000 people came out to see the work of art during its time in Iron Gate.
Now the artefact is on it is way back to the county, this time paying a visit to Chesterfield.
Created in collaboration with all 43 police forces, the Home Office, anti-violence groups and hundreds of families who have been affected by knife crime, the statue is a symbol of the nation’s intolerance to violence and aggression.
Derbyshire Police and Crime Commissioner Angelique Foster said: “The Knife Angel is a powerful statement on the struggle to curb knife crime and prevent more families from suffering senseless pain and loss. A number of partner organisations worked together to make the sculpture’s first visit to Derby possible and we are proud to see the Knife Angel back to the county, this time in Chesterfield.
“The Knife Angel vividly reminds us not only of the devastating consequences of violence but also our collective responsibility to take action and change the future for the next generation.”