LOCAL volunteers are needed to help engage with members of the public during Knife Angel's visit to North Somerset next month.

Designed by Alfie Bradley at the British Ironwork Centre (BIC), Knife Angel, a 27-foot-tall statue, has been created from blades confiscated by the UK's 43 police forces. 

Its arrival to Weston's Italian Gardens in May 2024 is the result of a successful bid by the North Somerset Violence Reduction Unit (VRU). It is hoped that this will help highlight the issue of violent crime.

Those interested in volunteering, whether it be in security or talking to visitors, can register their interest by clicking HERE.

A spokesperson from Knife Angel North Somerset said: "Knife Angel volunteers - we need your help!

"We’re asking the local community to volunteer with us while Knife Angel is in North Somerset, from helping with security to talking to visitors.

"We’re creating a volunteer information hub based at the statue, in Weston-super-Mare’s Italian Gardens.

"The role of the hub is to be approachable and engage with members of the public visiting the Knife Angel.

"Shifts are 2 or 2.5 hours long, and we’re offering them between 9am and 6pm every day in May.

"You can do as many as you like! We’re looking for volunteers who are 18 years or over, and you’ll be supported by a partner agency professional every shift and fully briefed prior to your first shift."

Councillor James Clayton, North Somerset Council’s executive member for safety in the community, said: “Violent crime, including knife crime, is a major issue across the UK.

"The Knife Angel symbolises the devastating impacts that this can have on communities.

“Securing the Knife Angel’s visit to North Somerset will serve as a catalyst for us, and our partners, to highlight violent crime through a month of action.

"We want to make sure the Knife Angel’s powerful message leaves a positive and lasting impact.

“It also provides an opportunity for us to showcase the fantastic work already being done to address violence.

"This includes our multi-agency VRU, as well as our Domestic Abuse and Violence Against Women and Girls team.”

Residents are encouraged to surrender their blades throughout the month and beyond.