A 27ft sculpture that aims to highlight the devastating impact of knife crime on families and communities has been erected in Ely.
The Knife Angel, made from more than 100,000 seized blades, was created by the British Ironwork Centre to highlight the need for change.
East Cambridgeshire District Council leader Cllr Anna Bailey said she hoped the sculpture would “spark conversations”.
“The arrival of the Knife Angel during Knife Crime Awareness Week is an opportunity for a powerful message, highlighting the work happening every day to keep our young people safe,” she said.
The East Cambs Community Safety Partnership will be working with local schools during the sculpture’s stay to arrange visits, workshops and programmes.
Lis Every, chair of the East Cambs CSP, said: “The students will gain a great deal from participating in these sessions and I know the CSP will continue to build upon their strong foundation with the heightened awareness of the Knife Angel.
“We are grateful that knife crime in Cambridgeshire is low compared to the national level. However, no one should underestimate the impact it has.”
The sculpture is located on Palace Green, opposite Ely Cathedral, and will remain in place until 17 June. Fully accessible to the public throughout its stay, the sculpture is free to attend, seven days a week.
The visit coincides with a knife amnesty, with the police encouraging people to surrender weapons.