A scheme to educate young people on the dangers of knife crime is being extended into Herefordshire.

The Steer Clear scheme is funded via the Police and Crime Commissioner’s Community Fund, and delivered by West Mercia Police.

PCC John Campion helped to fund the Knife Angel statue to visit Hereford last summer, which continues to reinforce the safety messages and work with the community to reduce knife crime.

Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “By tackling crime at the earliest stage we can help to prevent harm in our communities further down the line. I hope that through the investment I have made these sessions will continue to make a positive impact in Herefordshire too.”

Inspector James Ashton said: “The Steer Clear Workshop is a successful early intervention programme reaching out to those on periphery of knife related crime and I welcome its arrival in our county.

“Protecting young people from harm is absolutely integral to local policing and these workshops help children and young people recognise the risks of carrying knives and to challenge them people to consider a different, safer path in life.”