The Knife Angel also known as the National Monument Against Violence & Aggression, will be on display on King Edward Street throughout December.

Created by the British Ironwork Centre, the statue is being displayed on Scotland for the first time.

Welcoming the statue to Perth, Councillor Grant Laing, leader of Perth and Kinross Council, said: “When we look up at this 27-foot tall statue we must consider not just its history and the art behind its creation, but the history of the 100,000 blades that have been used to make it.

“Each of those weapons tells a tragic story. Stories that illustrate how violence has, for many people, become normalised.

“And those stories are ones familiar to communities across Perth and Kinross, across Scotland, and across the United Kingdom leaving behind a trail of lives and families ruined.

“As well as the victims of knife crime and their loved ones, there are also the lives thrown away by those who end up in prison because they thought carrying – and using - a knife was acceptable.

“All of this comes at a huge social cost. The Knife Angel is a stark reminder that we can all do better.”

The Knife Angel was created by artist Alfie Bradley and completed in 2018.

The statue was installed outside Perth Museum on Friday and an official welcoming ceremony was held on Monday morning to welcome it to the Fair City.

Perth and Kinross Provost Xander McDade said: “This is a powerful piece of work conveying an important message and it is a privilege to be the first Scottish city to host it.

“The Knife Angel has already become a real talking point since it was installed last week and I am sure it will have an impact on everyone who sees it.

“Since its completion in 2018, this sculpture has travelled across the UK, spreading its powerful message and educating communities about the consequences of violent behaviour. Its presence here in Perth is a call to action for all of us to work together to create a safer, more compassionate society.”

Throughout December, schools in Perth and Kinross will be visiting the Knife Angel working on projects relating to violence and knife crime.

A Book of Reflection remembering the victims of knife crime will also be available to sign throughout December.