PCC attends Luton Peace Vigil as Knife Angel departs

The event saw the Knife Angel depart from the town following a Walk of Remembrance.

The Knife Angel, a 27-foot sculpture crafted from over 100,000 seized blades was unveiled in Luton town centre earlier this month.

Its purpose was focused on building community partnerships to support young people, and to help combat knife crime across the county.

Following the walk, the Mayor, Councillor Tahmina Saleem, gave a speech and those directly affected by knife crime had the opportunity to speak, and to remember their loved ones.

The PCC, who also spoke at the event said “I was delighted to support this vigil; and to stand with councillors, community leaders and the people of Luton.

“We must commit to eliminating senseless and harmful violence in what form it occurs, whoever perpetuates it and where they do so. No one should be a victim. No one should choose to be criminal.

“There is and must always be zero tolerance to violence and to violent crime.

“I am determined that Bedfordshire Police will always tackle violent crime robustly and effectively.

“I am also determined to work with our partners such as Luton Borough Council, the other local authorities, schools, the NHS and others to do whatever we can to prevent violent crime and address the causes of violent crime.

The PCC is due to publish his Police and Crime Plan in the autumn and tackling violent crime features one of the core missions.

He further commented: “We must resource this mission. This will require police budgets and our partners committing resources. Words are not enough.

“I am pleased that the Knife Angel has stood proud in St Georges Square for the past month.

“Let’s commit ourselves to work tirelessly to prevent young people from taking up knives in the false belief that this will offer protection.”