An anti-knife crime walk through Stourbridge at the weekend saw over 300 people voice their wishes for a change in the law.

Local footballer, Ryan Passey, had his life taken away at the age of 24, when he was fatally wounded him in a Stourbridge bar.

19-year-old Kobe Murray pleaded self defence in relation to the death and was cleared of both murder and manslaughter, prompting Stourbridge MP Margot James to write to the Solicitor General about the case.

The march hoped to highlight the families campaign for a change in the Criminal Justice System to allow the right for victims in serious crime cases to challenge and appeal jury verdicts after acquittal. Ms James attended the event, held yesterday (Sunday) at the War Memorial Ground in Amblecote. She said:

"There's no doubt that knife crime has increased over the last few years and the consequences are dire. Some young people think they're doing it for reasons of self defence but there is never any need - or excuse - for carrying a knife.

"Together, we can engage with young people and give them a path out of the epidemic of knife crime."

The day, which aimed to celebrate Ryan's life as well as drawing attention to the cause, included a fun fair, food stalls and live entertainment alongside a football match for the inaugural Ryan Passey Challenge Cup. Wolves All Stars took on the Justice For Ryan team, losing 3-1 when the whistle was blown for full time. Ms James added: 

"The message is simple - think about the possible consequences both to others and to yourself. It's illegal to carry a knife for good reason and you're not just putting other peoples lives in danger; you're jeopardising your own future."