A boxing scheme has been one of several to secure a lasting legacy from the Knife Angel’s time in Bolton.

Halliwell based Round4RoundAK took its young members to visit the iconic monument, which was on Deansgate throughout November, last week to see it for themselves.

As well as imparting a powerful message against the devastating effects of knife crime, the group was boosted with a grant of £500, one of several given out as part of the Knife Angel programme.

A Round4RoundAK statement said: “The initiative started at 5pm promptly with coaches and representatives welcoming local youths into the Amir Khan Academy for a quick tour before an introductory boxing session was put on by their England Boxing accredited coaches.

The Bolton News: Young people heard a series of powerful talks on knife crimeYoung people heard a series of powerful talks on knife crime (Image: Public)

“Later on a hard hitting seminar which gave different perspectives on knife crime and the consequences of getting caught up in gang culture was produced where participants were asked questions about their own experiences and how they feel the government and local councils can shape and change the their future.

“Followed by pizza and refreshments for all, they were then taken to visit the Knife Angel itself and meet local poet June Hamer who was commissioned to produce and present the official Round4RoundAK poem to Bolton Council’s Cllr Rabiya Jiva.

“Discussions also took place along with Round4RoundAK director Ashif Ashik, head of outreach David Bradbury, who orchestrated the evening, and other members that will now help all parties communicate on future projects and build a better Bolton for everyone.”

The Knife Angel, also known as the National Monument Against Violence and Aggression was created by artist Alfie Bradley out of more than 100,000 blades seized from around the country.

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The sculpture’s time in Bolton was marked by a series of public events aimed at bringing home the message, especially to young people, about the dangers of knife crime.

Cllr Rabiya Jiva, council cabinet member for stronger communities at the council, announced in October that grants of up to £500 would also be made available to groups helping to tackle violence.

Round4RoundAK was one of the groups successfully awarded funding as part of this initiative.

The Knife Angel’s time in the borough came to an end last Friday with a closing ceremony held at Bolton Lads and Girls Club on Spa Road.