Ricky Hayden Memorial Joins Havering Council To Support Faz Amnesty Van Visiting Havering To Help Remove Knives From Our Streets

25th July 202525th July 2025 Francesca Lilleystone 0 Comments Faz Amnesty, Havering Council, Knife Crime min read

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A powerful initiative to tackle knife crime visited Havering this week as part of a wider effort to keep our streets safer.

On Tuesday 22 July, the Faz Amnesty Van rolled into Romford’s South Street, giving residents the opportunity to hand in knives, swords and other dangerous weapons—no questions asked. The van is part of a Home Office initiative aimed at reducing the number of weapons in circulation and preventing future violence.

The event was led by Havering Council’s Enforcement Team, who continue to do a brilliant job tackling crime and anti-social behaviour across the borough. Diane Egan from the council worked closely with Sue Hedges from the Ricky Hayden Memorial, an organisation formed in memory of 27-year-old Ricky who was tragically stabbed outside his home in 2016. Both Sue and April were present at the event.

“This van is about giving people a chance to make the right decision—no judgement, just safety,” said Sue Hedges.

Councillors Barry Mugglestone, Cabinet Member for Enforcement, and Paul McGeary were on hand to show their support. Also present was Harold Hill community champion Jan Sargent, a familiar face in local outreach efforts, and Weninger Irwin, known locally as Mr Active and the inspirational force behind Cool Rowings.

The Amnesty Van has now visited every London borough, collecting thousands of weapons and offering a message of change to those ready to take it.

“Every knife handed in could be a life saved,” said Sue Hedges, echoing the powerful purpose behind the memorial initiative.

The visit underlined Havering’s commitment to community safety, showing what’s possible when enforcement teams, campaigners and residents come together for a safer future.