West Midlands Police have taken part in a Faith Walk through Walsall town centre to the iconic Knife Angel as people came together to reflect on the impact of violence and knife crime.

The Faith Walk was organised by Black Country Innovate and The James Brindley Foundation and took place on Thursday, starting outside Primark and ending in Gallery Square where the iconic Knife Angel currently stands.

It is a powerful symbol of the destructive nature of knife crime on our communities. The 27ft high stainless steel Knife Angel, made from 100,000 confiscated knives. can be seen in the town until Thursday December 28.

It is designed to raise awareness about the devastating consequences of carrying knives and was created by artist Alfie Bradley and the British Ironworks Centre and is touring the UK to raise awareness of the devastating impact of knife crime. Deputy council leader of Walsall, Garry Perry, said:

"By showcasing this thought-provoking sculpture, our hope is that we can provoke discussion, signpost to support and empower all of our communities to choose life.

"Sometimes in Walsall, crime and the perception of crime can impact on the quality of life of residents."

Mark Brindley, fromThe James Brindley Foundation, added: “The Knife Angel is like an accessible social influencer, providing every member of our community, with an opportunity to engage and understand the complex issues surrounding serious youth violence.

"We must grasp this moment, to raise awareness and to educate those who remain indifferent to the consequences of knife crime."