Anti-violence bee sculpture visits schools

The sculpture is made up of knives and guns that have been seized

A sculpture made of seized weapons is touring schools in Walsall.

Made by the creators of the Knife Angel, the anti-violence Bee Monument is hoped to spark conversations about the dangers of weapons.

Thousands of knives, guns and other weapons seized from the streets have been used to build the figure.

Ch Supt Phil Dolby of West Midlands Police said: "We need children to get talking about knife crime."

Figures released in April showed the West Midlands Police area had the highest rate of knife crime offences in England and Wales in 2023.

Mayor of Walsall Anthony Harris said: “Our young people deserve to feel safe on the streets of Walsall, and we hope the bee will act as a great talking point in schools, where pupils can speak with peers openly and honestly, in a safe environment."

Schools will be able to book the bee for a day, and host assemblies or centre lessons around the monument and its symbolism.

“Too many lives are lost to knife crime and the council is fully committed to working with partners, communities and our young people to help reduce it," Mr Harris said.

The sculpture will be touring schools until 22 July.