Ex-gangster whose brother was stabbed to death issues message to parents

An ex-gangster whose brother was stabbed to death has issued advice to parents who fear their child is mixed up in knife crime.

Matthew Norford, from Rusholme, dealt drugs and used guns and intimidation tactics to control south Manchester’s streets during some of the most violent years in the city’s history. But after his brother Gary was knifed to death during a botched robbery, Matthew turned his life around.

The dad, who was shot in both legs with a machine gun, now mentors children on how to avoid going down the wrong path. Matthew founded his community organisation 1 Message because he was "that kid", and knows he can relate to children who might be involved in knife crime differently to the police or their teachers.

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It comes as a new campaign was launched to tackle knife crime after three Greater Manchester youths, aged 16, 17, and 20 were stabbed to death in just two months. Matthew reassured parents that there is help out there - but they must sometimes act with "tough love".

“I'd say, you know your kid and what is best in your heart for the kid," he told the M.E.N . "Get some advice from social services, get advice from colleagues, go on the internet and Google someone like myself.

“A lot of parents need to hear how good they actually do and not how bad you’re doing. You can tell me until the cows come home, don't steal, if I'm going to steal, I'm going to go steal. It doesn't mean you've not brought me up right.”

He emphasised how young people feeling safe enough to speak out and make good decisions often starts with love and acceptance - as well as some tough love - at home.

“A lot of people