Edinburgh's war memorial set on fire in 'sickening' act of vandalism

Police are investigating after poppy wreaths were set on fire at the war memorial outside Edinburgh's City Chambers.

The wreaths were set alight less than 24 hours after hundreds gathered for the annual Remembrance Sunday service.

Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was among those who laid tributes on the city's High Street as the nation remembered those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

The First Minister on Twitter called the vandalism "sickening and disgraceful".

She said: "Utterly beyond comprehension that someone would vandalise a war memorial on Remembrance Day – sickening and disgraceful. I hope those responsible are identified and brought to justice."

Several wreaths at the Stone of Remembrance were completely destroyed while the stone itself was damaged by the fire.

Lord Provost of the City of Edinburgh Robert Aldridge said: "Yesterday it was my honour to lay a wreath on behalf of the City of Edinburgh to remember those who served and sacrificed so much.

"The vandalism discovered this morning not only to the recently laid wreaths but also to Edinburgh's Stone of Remembrance is disgusting and disrespectful. We remain at a loss for the reasons someone could do something like this which has caused a lot of upset for everyone who respects the memories of all who serve their country.

"We have reported this to the police and would urge anyone who knows anything about what happened to contact them."

Scotland's largest veterans' group says the damage to the wreaths and memorial shows a "complete lack of respect".

Chief Executive of Legion Scotland Dr Claire Armstrong said: "We are appalled by this absolutely senseless act of vandalism.

"These wreaths were laid in memory of the men and women who sacrificed their lives, and this destruction shows a complete lack of respect for everything they and the Stone of Remembrance stand for. 

"This will be extremely upsetting for all the veterans, serving personnel and family members who paid their respects yesterday, especially those who have lost loved ones.  

"It is also a huge blow for the veterans with disabilities at Lady Haig's Poppy Factory, who have put their hearts and souls into making these tributes over the last few months. 

"We will be doing everything we can to assist Police Scotland with their investigation of this matter."

Police are now investigating and are gathering CCTV footage from the area.

Chief Inspector Murray Tait, Local Area Commander said: "Our enquiries are ongoing after poppy wreaths were set on fire at the war memorial in High Street, Edinburgh around 5am on Monday, 14 November. "Officers are carrying out enquiries and gathering CCTV footage to find out more information on whoever is responsible.

"I utterly condemn this appalling act of vandalism, especially at this time of year when remembrance services have just been held across the country. "If anyone has any information that will assist our investigation, please contact officers through 101 with reference number 601 of 14 November."