The family of murder victim Gavin McAleer is calling for a complete ban on the sale of evil weapons like the knife used to kill their much-missed son, brother and uncle. Below are some of your comments about the campaign. The Guardian will pass your messages of support on to Congleton MP Ann Winterton. Click here to add your comments and support.

Val Elliott, of Jersey Way, Middlewich:
“This and other offensive weapons should be banned from being sold. It is against the law to be in possession of one so why should they be available to buy? I see no valid reasons whatsoever. Gavin is sadly missed by all who knew him and if only these weapons had been banned prior to September Gavin might still be with us.”

Brenda Farrar, from Oldham:
“If weapons like this had not been available to people then Gavin would not have suffered the horrific injuries which led to his death. If the sale of these weapons was outlawed then it will certainly save lives in the future.”

John Martin, from Cheshire Police:
“I totally back the campaign to have this evil weapon banned, it has no place in a civilised society.”

Karen Slack, of Pinetree Close, Barnton:
“Weapons such as these are horrific and can serve no good. The case of Gavin McAleer shocked everyone and weapons such as these should be banned.”

Neil McAleer, of Rolt Crescent, Middlewich:
“My blood ran cold when I saw this evil weapon being displayed in the court. Why would a person want to possess such an object, even as a display item at home? A person taking a knife like this out on to the streets can only be intent on one thing. Sadly Gavin can never be brought back to us, and we grieve for Ged, Steph, Lisa and Ollie. Neil, Karen & Shaun all support your campaign to get the law amended to reflect the severity of ownership and use of these weapons.”

Neil Farrar, from Oldham:
“Times are changing. Where at one time this may have been used in good faith, people are now using it as a weapon to harm someone, with devastating consequences for family and friends of the victims. A total ban should be enforced.”

Terence Wainwright, from Oldham:
“There should be a total ban on the sale of weapons. As we have found out through the horrific murder of Gavin they should not be on sale at all. A tragic loss.”

Paul Gerrard, from Colchester:
“I was in the same year as Gavin at high school and I was shocked and saddened to hear about his murder because he was a really nice lad. To think these sorts of weapons can be bought by anyone is really disturbing. These weapons are a menace and need to be banned straight away. As a father I could not imagine losing my son in such a horrific way as the McAleer’s did with Gavin. Action needs to be taken swiftly to ensure this never happens again.”

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