Knife Angel set to be displayed in Wolverhampton city centre

The impressive creation, which is made up of knives that have been taken off the streets of the UK, has attracted thousands of visitors during its tour of the country.

It is currently on display in Birmingham but it has now been revealed talks are under way to bring it to Wolverhampton city centre.

The Knife Angel was created as a symbol reflecting rising violent crime across Britain.

Organisers are keen to bring it to cities where crime is on the rise in an effort to educate young people and are now focusing on Wolverhampton.

There have been several high-profile stabbings and shootings in the city over recent months.

Discussions are being held with police chiefs, with Queen Square being mooted as a possible location.

The sculpture has also visited Coventry, making Wolverhampton the only major West Midlands city yet to host it.

The 27ft sculpture was created by artist Alfie Bradley at the British Ironwork Centre near Oswestry. Mr Bradley has received glowing praise for his efforts to raise awareness of the devastating effects of knife crime.

He said: "Wolverhampton is quite local to us so it would be fantastic to have it there. It is definitely something I would like to see happen."

British Ironworks chairman Clive Knowles said: "With crime rate numbers only getting higher and the rate of violent acts ever-increasing, now seems like an incredibly important time for Wolverhampton to step up and host the Knife Angel.

"We were recently visited by PC Diane Sheppard, the Young Persons Officer for the West Midlands Police, and her colleague Tina Fallon-Hancock, the Engagement and Consultation Officer for West Midlands Police, to discuss making the Knife Angel’s visit to Wolverhampton a reality.

"We are really hoping that Wolverhampton’s efforts will materialise into agreeing a date soon for the Angel’s arrival in the city."