Out of the strong came sweetness

ON MONDAY, a new piece of public art was unveiled in Reading.

A big heart, the metallic structure is on show in The Oracle’s Riverside area. It is sure to become a tourist attraction and a magnet for selfies, and that can only be a good thing.

But we also hope those visiting spend some time looking beyond the beauty of the artwork and discover its story.

For part of the metal used in its creation came from knives handed in to Thames Valley Police through its regular amnesties – one is taking part in Reading this week.

The people who had these knives thought they made themselves strong. They thought it was the right answer to protect themselves.

But, as we know only too well, knife crime is rampant, and teenager Olly Stephens died as a result.

His parents have worked tirelessly to turn a tragedy into a positive for others and we salute their strength and resolve.

Yes, those who had knives thought they were strong, but from their desire to do better comes the sweetness of this marvellous statue.