Over 8,500 conversations about violent crime took place in January as the Knife Angel's presence prompted discussions and education about crime in the area.

Known as the national monument against violence and aggression, the Knife Angel left Arbour Park in Slough yesterday, where it had been hosted since January 9.

A closing ceremony took place on Monday, January 30 to formally mark the end of the month of action which saw 20 public events take place throughout the month.

Key events included a candlelit vigil, a knife crime operation and a music event in front of the angel.

The month also saw 56 educational sessions about violent crime delivered to over 3,000 children and young people.

Slough Borough Council, the Police and Crime Commissioner for Thames Valley, The Safety Centre, Love Music Hate Violence and Slough Town Football Club have all been key players in the month of action.

Deputy Commander for Slough policing area, Ashley Smith, said: “We have achieved so much during this month of action throughout January.

“The activity has demonstrated the power of communities, local businesses, partners and police uniting, with the common goal to tackle violence in all forms. 

“We have always acknowledged that this month of action is not the start or end point of preventing violence and aggression.

"However, the momentum that has been created throughout January cannot be lost.

"We will take this opportunity to build a legacy to the month of action and ensure there is a long-term and sustained difference to reducing violence and aggression across Slough.”

Pledges and messages of reflection tagged onto the barrier surrounding the Knife Angel grew to upwards of 900.

A knife amnesty has also been running as part of the month of action, with 44 knives surrendered across the town during the month.

Matthew Barber, Police and Crime Commissioner said: “The Knife Angel has been a fantastic tool to educate and raise awareness of knife crime.

"Tackling knife crime and violence in Slough remains a priority and I look forward to continuing to work with partners in our joint aim to make Slough a safer place.”