An imposing 27ft high statue made of 100,000 seized blades to highlight the dangers of knife crime was officially welcomed to Perth yesterday (Monday).
Also known as the National Monument Against Violence and Aggression, the Knife Angel will be on display on King Edward Street throughout December – and a Book of Reflection remembering the victims of knife crime will also be available to sign during the month.
The Knife Angel installation was praised by the mum of tragic Perth knife crime victim Cammy Rae (20) who died after being stabbed in a city flat in April 2023.
Kerry Burgess said: “It’s a very hard hitting statue, and well done to Perth and Kinross Council for having it here for December.
“I pray and hope it gets attention from those carrying knives.
“My poor boy should be here today.
“It’s clear that carrying knives is not okay.”
Throughout December, Perth and Kinross schools will visit the Knife Angel for projects relating to violence and knife crime.
It is the first time that the statue created by the British Ironwork Centre has been displayed in Scotland.
Perth and Kinross Council leader councillor Grant Laing said: “When we look up at this 27-foot tall statue we must consider not just its history and the art behind its creation, but the history of the 100,000 blades that have been used to make it.
“Each of those weapons tells a tragic story.
“Stories that illustrate how violence has, for many people, become normalised.
“And those stories are ones familiar to communities across Perth and Kinross, across Scotland, and across the United Kingdom leaving behind a trail of lives and families ruined.
“As well as the victims of knife crime and their loved ones, there are also the lives thrown away by those who end up in prison because they thought carrying – and using – a knife was acceptable.
“All of this comes at a huge social cost. The Knife Angel is a stark reminder that we can all do better.”
The Knife Angel was created by artist Alfie Bradley and completed in 2018.
Cammy Rae’s killer Caleb Ferguson (20) was handed a life sentence last month for murdering Cammy.
He was ordered to serve at least 16 years before being eligible for parole.
The Knife Angel statue was installed outside Perth Museum on Friday and an official welcoming ceremony was held on Monday morning to welcome it to the Fair City.
Perth and Kinross Provost Xander McDade said: “The Knife Angel has already become a real talking point since it was installed last week and I am sure it will have an impact on everyone who sees it.
“Since its completion in 2018, this sculpture has travelled across the UK, spreading its powerful message and educating communities about the consequences of violent behaviour.
“Its presence here in Perth is a call to action for all of us to work together to create a safer, more compassionate society.”