Ilkeston residents have described an anti-violence bee monument in the town as "chilling" and "thought-provoking". The eye-catching model - which is touring Derbyshire - is 11ft tall and was created using various weapons, including knives and firearms, which were seized by Greater Manchester Police from the city's streets.
The aim of the bee is to prevent violence and it provides a visual representation of intolerance to crime. The bee is on a trailer touring across the UK to share the anti-violence message.
The sculpture was in Long Eaton yesterday (December 6). And today (December 7), it was in Ilkeston.
Read more: Police seize van which had been parked on road for several days
Retired 77-year-old Howard Smedley told Nottinghamshire Live that the monument really highlights the issues of violence. He said: “I think it’s brilliant.
"I’m glad there’s something like this bringing it to light. You don’t realise how many items are about in the public. It highlights it, people are aware of the issues, but when you see it, it highlights it.”
Ilkeston resident Lynn Martin described it as "chilling". The 74-year-old added: “It’s thought-provoking, it’s scary. It’s a bit chilling. I would like to know what period of time they’re from, in a way that is irrelevant when you look at the knives. It’s a delight it has come to Ilkeston.”
Also from Ilkeston, Alison Harvey told Nottinghamshire Live: “I think it’s incredible. At first you think it’s beautiful but then you look and see what it’s made from. Then you think of the story, they’ve been taken, confiscated and surrendered.”
The bee will also visit a number of schools and colleges during its month-long trek across Derbyshire, sending its important message to young people. Cheryl Askin, 63, said it is important that the anti-violence message be shared with young people.
She said: “It’s definitely a good thing to do.”
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