A moment to reflection and remembrance - Be part of the Knife Angel closing ceremony

Newark and Sherwood District Council in partnership with We are Newark, You Can Do Sport, Newark College and Your CVS have organised a whole host of engaging and educational activities while the Knife Angel has been in Newark with the closing ceremony acting as one of its final events.  

Local residents across Newark and Sherwood are welcome to join this free event from 2pm on Sunday 17 May with limited spaces available due to capacity at the church. To book your ticket, residents can go to: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/knife-angel-in-newark-on-trent-closing-ceremony-tickets-1988980973634

Tickets will be available on a first-come, first-served basis.

During the ceremony, there will be a service led by the vicar, Newark Town Band, a dance performance, The Angel Choir representing local schools and a display of angel artwork from activities happening around the district.

A number of speeches, poems and readings will also take place from dignitaries and individuals who have been personally affected by knife crime and violence.

Councillor Paul Taylor, Portfolio Holder for Public Protection and Community Relations at Newark and Sherwood District Council, said: “Hosting the Knife Angel is an honour for Newark and Sherwood, a reflection of our district’s commitment to raising a national awareness of knife crime and its devastating impact.

“The closing ceremony will be a moment of reflection and remembrance with several emotional and thought-provoking speeches taking place.

“Our goal has been to empower young people to become advocates where violence is never seen as an option, helping to create a safer future for themselves and their peers.

“Every conversation started by the Knife Angel has the power to change behaviour, challenge assumptions, and save lives.

“We’ve seen so many in the community engage over the last few weeks through workshops, school sessions, events and training throughout the Knife Angel’s stay, helping residents understand how to spot risks, support young people and report concerns wherever they visit in the UK.”

After the ceremony, a procession will take place from the church finishing at the Knife Angel statue where a blessing will be made.

Newark is the first town in Nottinghamshire to host this national monument, strengthening our commitment to reducing violence and creating safer communities.

The Knife Angel gives us time to remember those who have experienced violence and aggression wherever they live in the UK, supporting individuals, families and communities shattered by violence and working together to rebuild and move forward.

For more information on the Knife Angel visit, go to: https://www.newark-sherwooddc.gov.uk/knifeangel/