Sky1 has commissioned Leopard films to make a series of campaigning programmes entitled War on Knives addressing the menace of knife crime in the UK. Collaborating with police forces around the country the week long event will launch with a live show on October 14th and close with a second live 1 x 60” show on October 21st, both presented by Donal MacIntyre and June Sarpong. The series will highlight the work of those on the front line; feature the stories of those affected directly, both the victims and perpetrators; examine ways to get knives off the streets; and looking to the future explore means of tackling the problem.

War on Knives will unite the nation with interactive programming that invites viewers to contribute via emails and a red button and online questionnaire. Cameras stationed around the UK will follow the stories of concerned communities, local police forces and initiatives that seek to find a solution. Donal MacIntyre, commented, “Knife crime and the toll exacted in recent months and years, on our young in particular, is one of the most important issues facing communities today. Remember, if a whole generation is casual about knives today then tomorrow it’s guns and already we are seeing that trend developing.” June Sarpong, added, “The War on Knives is so important because this is the biggest problem currently affecting society and, in particular, young people. It’s shocking what is happening on the streets and something has clearly shifted in the minds of these young people – we need to act now and get involved in finding practical solutions before it is out of control.”

Throughout the week between the live shows the drive will continue with interstitials running on Sky’s network of channels with a raft of celebrities lending their support to the anti-knife campaign. Amongst those are Olympic Gold medallist boxer James DeGale, singer Estelle and Brooke Kinsella, the former Eastenders actress whose 16-year-old brother, Ben, was killed in June.

Andrew O’Connell, Commissioning Editor, Factual, Sky1, who commissioned the series, commented: “The steep increase in knife crime we’re all reading about in newspapers every day is staggering – 26 youths have lost their lives this year alone. I’m proud we are hosting this campaign on Sky1 and supporting the authorities in their work to put a stop to the violence. This event will reach out to the public with appeals from well-known and respected figures from the worlds of entertainment and sport that young people can relate to alongside deeply moving stories from victims and their families. It will also offer viewers a forum where they can share their opinions and make a difference.”

James Burstall, CEO Leopard Films, said “Leopard is committed to campaigning popular television and this major event is a fantastic opportunity for us to be working with Sky1 confronting this national issue head on. We’re very excited to be working with the channel on this multi-platform, live and interactive project.”