A powerful knife crime awareness animation created with young people from Hertfordshire has been shortlisted for two national awards, with residents being encouraged to vote for the project before the deadline this week.

The film, And I Was Thinking…, has been nominated in both the Animation and Social Good categories of the 2026 Creativepool People's Choice Awards.

Created by young people for young people during the visit of the Knife Angel to Hertfordshire, the animation aims to spark honest conversations about knife crime, the choices young people face and the consequences of violence.

The project was developed with the Hertfordshire Youth Commission, which brings together young people to help tackle issues including violence, community safety and trust in policing.

Hertfordshire Police and Crime Commissioner Jonathan Ash-Edwards is now encouraging residents to watch, share and vote for the film to help it gain wider recognition.

He said: "This film tackles a difficult issue in a powerful and thought-provoking way. The young people involved were passionate about raising awareness of knife crime and challenging the attitudes that can lead to violence, and that passion shines through in every second of the animation.

"What makes the project so special is that it has been created by young people, for young people. It has the potential to start important conversations, challenge perceptions and help prevent future harm.

"I'm incredibly proud to see their work recognised nationally and I hope residents across Hertfordshire will take a moment to watch the film, share it and vote. Every vote helps shine a spotlight on a message that could make a real difference."

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Residents can vote by visiting the Creativepool People's Choice Awards page and selecting And I Was Thinking… in the Animation and Social Good categories under Individuals.

Voting closes on Wednesday, 16 July.