Knife victim’s mum praises powerful Angel sculpture days after killer sentenced

Perth Becomes First Scottish City to Display Knife Angel Sculpture

Perth has become the first city in Scotland to showcase a powerful Knife Angel sculpture, created from 100,000 confiscated weapons, just days after the sentencing of a killer. The sculpture, standing at an impressive 23 feet high, arrived in Perth this week and will be on display outside Perth Museum throughout December.

The mother of Cammy Rae, Kerry Burgess, whose son tragically lost his life in a knife attack last year, has spoken out in support of the sculpture. Cammy was fatally stabbed three times by Caleb Ferguson, who was recently sentenced to life detention for the crime. Kerry Burgess expressed her hope that the Knife Angel statue would serve as a strong deterrent against carrying knives, emphasising the devastating consequences of such actions on families and communities.

The Knife Angel sculpture, made from blades collected from amnesty bins across the UK, has previously been displayed in towns across England and Wales since its creation in 2018. Perth and Kinross Council leader Grant Laing highlighted the importance of raising awareness about the impact of knife crime and the need for communities to work together to prevent such violence.

Schools in Perth and Kinross will engage with projects related to violence and knife crime during the sculpture’s display in December. Provost Xander McDade expressed pride in welcoming the Knife Angel to Perth, believing its message will resonate not only locally but across Scotland. The statue will be illuminated at night, and a photographic competition and a Book of Condolences for victims of knife crime will also be available for public participation.

The presence of the Knife Angel in Perth serves as a poignant reminder of the need to address knife crime and its detrimental effects on individuals and society at large. By engaging with the community and promoting awareness, initiatives like this sculpture play a vital role in fostering a safer environment for all.

Insights: The installation of the Knife Angel sculpture in Perth marks a significant step in raising awareness about the dangers of knife crime and promoting a culture of non-violence in the community. The support from local authorities, schools, and residents demonstrates a collective effort to address the issue of knife crime and work towards creating a safer environment for everyone. By highlighting the devastating impact of violence, such initiatives aim to educate and deter individuals from carrying weapons, ultimately contributing to a more peaceful society.