Students create knife angel inspired sculpture

The sculpture is a lighthouse measuring 4.5 metres (14.7ft) tall

Students from a children’s centre have unveiled a “powerful” new sculpture inspired by the Knife Angel.

The Beacon of Hope in Weston-super-Mare, in Somerset, was designed by students to amplify the Knife Angel’s message of fighting against knife crime.

The idea for the sculpture was created by students from Voyages Learning Campus, and was led and coordinated by local communities and artists.

Alliance Homes, which led the project, said they hoped it would leave a "lasting legacy” in the town.

Words wrap around the sculpture and reflect positive things the student's value

The Beacon of Hope was previously on display at the Sovereign Shopping Centre but will soon be installed in the Bournville neighbourhood.

The sculpture is a lighthouse measuring 4.5 (14.7ft) metres tall, and features chosen words crafted in steel sheets.

Helen Wheelock, community growth manager at Alliance Homes, said: “It was inspiring to see these young students getting involved in creating this positive symbol, learning more about the profound impact of knife crime and helping to raise awareness in our communities."

The students played an important part in creating the sculpture

It was coordinated by artists including Felix Rowberry and Char Smith, from Women Teaching Fabrication workshops, who were also involved in the Glow festival held in the town in February.

Ms Rowberry said: “A beacon is a powerful symbol of hope and guidance, particularly fitting for a seaside town like Weston-super-Mare.

“The words they selected wrap around the sculpture, and reflect the positive things they value, such as perseverance, joy, friendship and forgiveness."

The sculpture was funded by donations from organisations such as Safer Stronger North Somerset and Avon and Somerset Police.