Armed forces flags to be lowered on anniversary of death of Lee Rigby

Lee Rigby

The anniversary of the death of Middleton soldier Lee Rigby (22 May) is to be marked by armed forces flags across the borough being lowered.

Linda Fisher, Deputy Chief Executive of Rochdale Borough Council, said: “Following a discussion with Lee’s parents, armed forces flags across the borough will be lowered to mark the anniversary of his passing on Thursday, and the thoughts and prayers of our residents will be with Lee’s family, as they were one year ago.

"Over the last few months we have been designing and planning, working closely alongside the family, a lasting tribute to Lee, befitting to his memory and bravery.

"There will be a bronze memorial created in Middleton Memorial Gardens, alongside a plaque for Lee and a memorial stone where other soldiers can be commemorated.

"These will be completed later this year.

"We have also applied for a memorial to be placed in the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire, a very special place honouring those who have served, and continue to serve our nation.”

Michael Adebowale and Michael Adebolajo are serving whole life sentences for the brutal murder of Lee on 22 May 2013.