The mother of Benjamin Orton, who was killed in Swadlincote last year, is planning to work with youngsters in the community to educate them on the dangers and impact of knife crime.

Benjamin's mother spent time with Swadlincote Police today (Friday) with the town's Safer Neighbourhood Team supporting her venture.

Amanda said: "Our family will never be the same again, losing Benji has left a huge void in our lives that can never be filled, it's like a piece of a jigsaw puzzle which will always be missing.

"Nothing can bring Benji back to us.

"I still cannot put into words how I feel about the loss of my son.

"It still does not feel real that Benji is gone, I still feel like he is here, like he is going to walk through the door any moment."

The SNT posted about their meeting with Amanda on social media and added: "Sgt Tarj Nizzer and Jo Saddington have spent the morning with Amanda, the Mother of 17-year-old Benjamin Orton, who was killed in Swadlincote on Saturday 12th June 2021.

"Amanda has expressed an interest in working with our younger community.

"We will support her in this venture, and we will work with her where we can as an organisation.

"We are supporting Amanda and her family as they navigate through this tough time.

"PC Saddington has delivered some flowers, in Benji's favourite colours, to the Memorial on behalf of all at Swadlincote Police Station."

Following the tragic incident and subsequent trial, Derbyshire Police said in December: "A teenager has been found guilty of killing 17-year-old Benjamin Orton, in Swadlincote.

"The boy was found guilty of manslaughter following a three-week trial at Derby Crown Court.

"The jury took more than three days to reach their decision.

"Benjamin, who was known as Benji to his friends and loved ones, suffered 13 stab wounds, two of which punctured his heart and right lung."