SCHOOLCHILDREN have been warned of the dangers of knife crime during an awareness event at the Odeon, Barons Quay.

Northwich-based Queensberry Alternative Provision (AP) hosted the hard-hitting event on Wednesday, October 24 for students at UCAN, Weaverham High School, St Nicks and Knutsford Academy.

Aiming to raise awareness of the impact of becoming involved with risk-taking behaviour, the day focused on county lines and knife crime with presentations and talks.

Paul Cooper of Queensberry AP opened proceedings by looking at criminal exploitation and its impact on communities, while a volunteer from HMP Thorn Cross shared his experiences.

A trauma nurse with 20 years' experience hammered home the dangers of knife crime, while PC Amy Jackson of Cheshire Police Safer Schools and Young People Partnership and Luis Bamber from Runcorn’s 'live your life drop the knife' campaign also gave their thoughts.

Nic Martin of Queensberry AP said: “It is important that our community are aware of exactly what it means to be exploited, far too many young people aren’t aware they are being groomed until it is far too late.

"This event aims to raise their awareness and help them spot the signs early on so they can make positive choices.”

It is hoped that those present will take away lessons that will stick with them, such as the HMP Thorn Cross volunteer's experience and Liverpool-based trauma nurse Rob Jackson's take on the impact of crime.

Rob, who works in A&E at the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, shared graphic photos of injuries in order to alert young people to the potential consequences and brutal reality of carrying knives.

Queensberry AP's Paul Cooper said: "We make no apologies for asking Rob to talk at our event, whilst some of the images may be extremely hard to stomach, the message that he delivers is simple.

"If you are going to carry a knife and get involved in criminal behaviour there is a real possibility it is going to end badly."

Cllr Smetham was present at Rob's presentation.

She said: "David, my consort, and I attended a shocking presentation about knife crime awareness.

"Tell your lovely children what the consequences of even the slightest involvement in the vile drug trade will mean for them. No one involved can be safe. It is spreading even to the most rural of areas.

"Make your youngsters aware that neither top range Nike trainers, track suits, the perception of being cool, or other temptation is worth the risk. Once involved it is impossible to get out.

"The violence to self, family members friends is inescapable. Dreadful injuries, deaths and permanent paralysis were shown in their vivid and ghastly reality.

"Hospital and police evidence is chillingly real and the danger is increasing.”

Queensberry AP would like to thank the team from Odeon Cinema in Northwich for their support in the build-up and on the day.