Sharp focus

To celebrate the Knife Angel – a giant 27ft sculpture, made from 100,000 seized and surrendered blades visiting Lancashire – a photography competition will be held to find the best image of the installation. 

Snappers of all ages and abilities in Lancashire are being invited to take part in a competition – whether it’s on a mobile phone or using a DSLR. Judges will be looking for unique angles of the Knife Angel, composition, and artistic flair.

The competition will run 4-22 November and the unique piece of art will be available to view for free until 29 November at the rear of Blackburn Cathedral.

Prizes will be up for grabs for the winning photography entry, and a panel of judges will select the best photograph ahead of a prize giving and exhibition at Blackburn Youth Zone on Saturday 27 November from 1pm.

Bringing the Knife Angel to Lancashire is a partnership between the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Office, the Lancashire Violence Reduction Network, Blackburn Cathedral, and Blackburn with Darwen Council.

Andrew Snowden, Lancashire Police and Crime Commissioner said: “It's fantastic to see the Knife Angel here in Lancashire. The statue is a powerful symbol and great opportunity to raise awareness of the issue of knife crime and the devastating effect it has on individuals, their families and entire communities.

“The photography competition is an additional opportunity to share our messages across Lancashire and get people to think about the impact and consequences of violent crime.

“My message to anyone thinking of carrying a knife is simple. Don’t do it. You are so much more likely to become a victim yourself and the potential to cause serious injury is huge, even if you don’t intend to. More than that, carrying an offensive weapon is a serious offence and our officers are out there to take action and deal with offenders robustly.”

Det Ch Supt Sue Clarke, head of Lancashire Violence Reduction Network, said: “The Knife Angel coming to Lancashire provides an opportunity for all Lancashire communities to reflect on the very emotive issues which this sculpture represents. 

“We have an abundance of talent in our county and I would appeal to those creative people amongst us to share their talents and inspire others with their photographs of this imposing sculpture.

“There are many ways for individuals, community groups, and families to engage with the Knife Angel while it is here. Whether you come and see the sculpture, take part in a workshop, or put your photography skills to the test I hope you take away a message of peace and hope for the future.”

The Knife Angel has already toured 13 UK towns and cities, but this is the first time it has been to Lancashire.

The sculpture took artist Alfie Bradley four years to create at the British Ironwork Centre in Oswestry, Shropshire. 

There is no limit to the number of pictures that you submit via social media, but entries must include official hashtags so that the judges can see your entries. 

Simply post your best pictures of the Knife Angel on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram using the hashtag #KnifeAngelLancashire.

A gallery of entries will also be showcased on the Knife Angel Lancashire Facebook page.