A MANCHESTER Bee monument to stand against violence is set to be created at the British Ironwork Centre (BIC) using confiscated weaponry.

Last week, a 7.5-tonne lorry arrived at the Oswestry-based attraction, carrying weapons, including knives and guns, which have been collected from the streets of Manchester.

The weapons were collected as part of the ‘Forever Amnesty’, which was conducted by Greater Manchester Police (GMP).

The knife and gun banks used for the amnesty were designed and created at the centre, and have been utilised as a continual programme to encourage and support the public to surrender their dangerous weapons.

A spokesman for the BIC said it was eye-opening to witness the number of weapons being brought to the centre.

They said: “The variety and sheer volume of weapons delivered to the Ironworks was a stark reminder that our need to suppress violence is a continual effort that requires a continual focus.

“The piece that we create for Manchester will be their first and only anti-violence monument created from recovered weapons, so it will be entirely unique on many fronts.

“Directed by the GMP, we have already submitted concept drawings showcasing what the monument could look like using the weaponry that they have delivered to us.

“Taking inspiration from Manchester’s bee symbolism, the monument will take on the form of a giant bee, watching over the city and providing a permanent reminder of their stance against violent and aggressive behaviour.

“It will be used by not only the GMP but also different groups all across the city, and the wider region, as an educational tool to symbolise Manchester’s intolerance to all forms of violence.”

A suitable location for the monument is still yet to be decided upon, but it is hoped it will be placed in a prominent position where the maximum number of residents and visitors will be able to view it.

Talks for Manchester to host the Knife Angel are also ongoing.