Vandals have targeted memorials to murdered soldier Lee Rigby ahead of the anniversary of his death.

Flags were damaged and ripped of railings in Hillreach opposite the Royal Artillery Barracks.

A crime scene is in place and photos show that the area has been cordoned off, and police officers are conducting reassurance patrols.

This is the second time this year that a memorial to the young fusilier has been removed from the site of the horrific murder after a flag disappeared in January.

A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: “Police were called at 11.44am on Thursday, May 18 to a report that flags at the Lee Rigby memorial in Hillreach, Woolwich - opposite the Royal Artillery Barracks - had been damaged, with some possibly stolen.

“Officers have attended and are making enquiries, and a crime scene is now in place.

“Local Officers will be conducting reassurance patrols.

“It is believed that the memorial was damaged sometime overnight on Wednesday, 17 May/Thursday, 18 May.”

The Lee Rigby Foundation said " We must stress that is not the official memorial to Lee. The good people of Woolwich put these banners up as a mark of respect to Lee and we are heartbroken that somebody would interfere with them. It is disrespectful. Thankyou for your continued support"

Lee Rigby's 4th Anniversary Memorial Day will take place on the 21st May 2017 from 10 am.

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