SOUTHAMPTON Test MP Alan Whitehead has added his voice to the Daily Echo's campaign to get knives off the streets - having seen the devastation caused to family and friends when a loved one is stabbed.

Teenager Daniel Loader, one of Mr Whitehead's constituents, died two years ago after he was stabbed twice in the back in Lordshill in Southampton.

The 17-year-old died following an incident in the Aldermoor area of the city by teenager Damien Kershaw who was convicted of his manslaughter last year.

Mr Whitehead said attitudes needed to change and tougher sentences for carrying knives must be implemented in the battle to get blades off the streets.

He added that he was worried that knives can so easily become deadly weapons "in a moment."

"We've seen from the tragic events in the Southampton area in recent years just how lethal knives can be.

"Effectively it's as lethal as carrying a gun," said Mr Whitehead.

"The idea that knives can be carried as a fashion accessory or for protection is perhaps just one step away from another killing."

He added: "We need to change attitudes towards knives. Keeping this in the mind the Daily Echo's campaign will I hope make a substantial start."

The Daily Echo decided to take a stand just days after the death of Lewis Singleton.

The 18-year-old from Upper Weston Lane died from stab wounds in the early hours of Saturday March 31, in Obelisk road, Woolston.

Friends and family members of Lewis - the fourth person to die of knife wounds in the area this year - have lent their support as well as city MP and former Home Office Minister John Denham and all three political parties in Southampton.