The Knife Angel to come to Gateshead
A sculpture made of more than 100,000 knives is set to arrive in Gateshead as a stark warning of the impact of knife crime.
The Knife Angel is going on display outside Sage Gateshead after the charity Samantha's Legacy secured the display for the region. It's part of an educational campaign taking place throughout February.
The month long visit will be used to educate the public and raise awareness around knife crime, and the devastating effects that it can have for those involved.
Samantha's Legacy was set up following the murder of 18 year old Samantha Madgin in 2007. She was killed in Wallsend by a 15 year old just weeks after giving birth to son Callum.
The charity set up by Samantha's mum Alison Madgin and sister Carly is being supported by Police and Crime Commissioner Kim McGuinness, who has helped part fund the family's bid to bring the Knife Angel to the region.
The sculpture designed by artist Alfie Bradley, and created by British Ironwork Centre has previously spent time in Middlesbrough. The family of Chris Cave brought the sculpture to Centre Square in August 2019. Chris was stabbed to death in Redcar in 2003.
The Knife Angel will be unveiled in Gateshead on 30th January and will be accessible to the public until its departure on 27th February. A book of reflections will be also be available for visitors to leave their messages and thoughts.