Families of stabbing victims lead a poignant procession in Perth, urging for a knife amnesty to combat violence
Perth: The families of two young men who lost their lives to knife violence took part in a moving procession through the city. They were there to honor the Knife Angel, a massive statue made from 100,000 confiscated blades.
This 27-foot tall figure stands as a powerful reminder against knife crime. Jade Taylor and Kerry Burgess, the grieving relatives, were at the forefront of the event.
Jade’s nephew, Barry Dixon, was just 22 when he was killed, and Kerry’s son, Cameron Rae, was only 20. Their tragic stories highlight the urgent need for change.
As they walked together, they called for a knife amnesty in Scotland. Kerry expressed hope that such an initiative could raise awareness and help prevent further tragedies.
“We want to keep the conversation going,” she said. “Knife crime is a real issue in Perth.” Jade added that even seeing amnesty boxes might encourage someone to reconsider carrying a knife.
“If we can stop just one person from carrying a knife, that’s a life saved,” she emphasized.
Having the Knife Angel in the city since December has sparked discussions and brought the community together. Jade noted that it has made people think about the consequences of knife crime.
A piper led the procession through the streets, creating a somber yet hopeful atmosphere. Perth and Kinross Council leader Grant Laing spoke to the crowd, stressing the importance of the Knife Angel’s message.
“This statue has shown us the real impact of knife crime,” he said. “As it moves on, let’s remember its lessons and continue to promote kindness and understanding.”
Perth was the first city in Scotland to host the Knife Angel, which has been touring since 2018. After this event, it will head back south, but its message will linger in the hearts of those who attended.
