Oswestry's Knife Angel will be headed east for the first time on its tour of the United Kingdom, with it set to appear at Derby Cathedral.

It has been travelling for more than six months, with spells in Liverpool, Hull and Birmingham, but in October this year, it will proudly stand next to Derby Cathedral in Irongate — the first time it has gone to the east Midlands.

This has been made possible through a number of stakeholders, including the cathedral, Derbyshire Police, Derby City Council, Police and Crime Commissioner Hardyal Dhindsa, University Hospitals of Derby and the Burton NHS Foundation Trust.

It will be supported by a woman whose son was killed by a knife in Derby.

Rachel Webb’s son, Tom, was 22-years-old when he was stabbed in St Peter’s Street, by a 16-year-old boy in January 2016.

Later that year Rachel supported an amnesty held across Derbyshire and knives from this amnesty were donated towards the creation of the sculpture.

She said: “I am thrilled to learn the Knife Angel is coming to Derby.

"It’s an emotive thought-provoking monument, which is helping to educate and raise awareness of the increasing knife crime epidemic on Britain’s streets.

"It’s my hope the Angel will encourage open conversations in homes, differing community groups and schools, helping our young people to understand the horrific consequences of carrying and using a knife.

"I feel the Knife Angel stands tall in honour of all our dearly loved and missed, it is also a beacon of hope lighting the way forward for much needed urgent change.”

Jack Atwal, project manager for the group working on the Angel’s visit, added: “For the 28 days that the sculpture is in the city we hope it will be used as a catalyst for a range of activities, particularly aimed at young people, to divert them away from knife crime and violence.

"We are also keen for as many people as possible to come and view the sculpture, particularly to learn about its aims and to show solidarity against violence and aggression.”

If you are interested in volunteering or represent a group that would like to be interested in the programme of activities please contact the organising group on knifeangel@derbycathedral.org