Events designed to end street violence can help cut gun crime, an activist has said.

Desmond Crockwell said that the goal of the anti-violence forums launched last spring was to “stop the killing”.

Mr Crockwell said: “I think we have played a huge part in the decrease of murders in that time.

“I think we have encouraged a lot of organisations to rethink and step up their game as far as promoting anti-violence.”

Mr Crockwell, editor of anti-violence magazine Visionz, was speaking as he announced the next event would be held in Southampton on June 2.

“The Connection” will feature men who have turned their backs to life on the streets, including Andre Minors, Fitzgerald Richardson and Raymond Symonds.

Other speakers will include Yolanda Ming, Patricia O’Connor, Anthony Peets, Shawnette Somner, Eddie Tavares and Muriel Wade-Smith.

Mr Crockwell said the speakers wanted to tell their stories in a bid to create a safer Bermuda.

He added: “They are here for anyone who may seek support for a young person who may be heading down a path of potential destruction.”

Mr Crockwell said the event was aimed at providing young men with support.

He added: “We believe that relationship building is key in getting that help, thus the theme. Although our call is primarily to men, we welcome anyone who wishes to connect with someone who either wants to help or needs help.”

The anti-violence events have been spread around the island to maximise impact.

Mr Crockwell said: “We see different faces every time, so it is a good thing.”

He added that people with links to island gangs have been in touch with him.

He said: “They respect and acknowledge our effort — and that is from Somerset to St George’s.”

Mr Crockwell credited the success of the events to the speakers he had lined up.

He explained: “I believe many in the streets respect and can relate to the voices that have spoken. One thing we cannot argue with is facts. Since these people have stepped up to speak, the murders have gone down.”

The Connection will be held at Mount Zion AME, Mount Zion Lane, Whale Bay Road, starting at 6pm on June 2