Residents are being invited to join Shrewsbury Town Council for a special Knife Angel Farewell Vigil marking theendof the sculpture's stay inShrewsbury.
The vigil will take place on Thursday 30 July, beginning at 6.30pm in The Square, with attendees asked to arrive from 6.15pm ahead of the arrival of theMayor of Shrewsbury, Councillor Bernie Bentick.
Open to everyone, the vigil will provide an opportunity for the community to come together in reflection and gratitude, remembering those whose lives have been affected by knife crime while recognising the importance of working together to create safer communities. It will also be the final opportunity for residents to see the Knife Angel before it leaves Shrewsbury and returns to the British Ironwork Centre.
Since arriving in Shrewsbury in June, the Knife Angel has become a focal point for reflection, education and conversation about the devastating impact of knife crime. Created from more than 100,000 knives and blades surrendered or seized by police forces across the UK, the sculpture stands as a powerful reminder of the human cost of violence while also symbolising hope, compassion and the possibility of change.
As part of the vigil, the Mayor of Shrewsbury, Councillor Bernie Bentick, will present certificates on behalf of Shrewsbury Town Council to Alfie Bradley, creator of the Knife Angel, and representatives from the British Ironwork Centre, in recognition of their commitment to raising awareness of knife crime through education and community engagement.
Residents attending the vigil will alsohave the opportunity towrite messages on reflection cards, available fromShrewsbury Town Council’s office, which will be displayed on the railings surrounding the sculpture as a lasting expression of hope, remembrance and community solidarity.
The farewell vigil follows the Civic Reflection Event held earlier this month, which brought together community leaders, organisations and residents to reflect on the themes represented by the Knife Angel through words, music and a shared commitment to creating safer communities.
Helen Ball, Town Clerk of Shrewsbury Town Council, said:
"Over the pastfiveweeks, thousands of people have visited the Knife Angel, each taking away their own thoughts and reflections. For many, it has been a moving reminder of the lives affected by knife crime and the importance of supporting young people, showing compassion and working together as a community.
"This vigil is the final opportunity for residents to see the Knife Angel before it leaves Shrewsbury. We hope people of all ages will join us to reflect on its message, remember those affected by knife crime and stand together in the belief that positive change is possible when communities unite."
The Knife Angel will remain in The Square until 31 July, when it will leave Shrewsbury to return to the British Ironwork Centre.
Everyone is welcome to attend the Knife Angel Farewell Vigil on Thursday 30 July.
