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Woolwich terror victim Lee Rigby honoured with permanent Middleton memorial

A permanent memorial to Fusilier Drummer Lee Rigby will be erected in Middleton next year.

Fusilier Rigby was murdered near his barracks in Woolwich, London, in May last year by extremists Michael Adebolajo and Michael Adebowale.

A bronze drum memorial, alongside a plaque for Lee and a stone where other soldiers will be commemorated, will be unveiled in Middleton Memorial Gardens in February 2015.

Lyn Rigby, Lee’s mother, said: “I am pleased to see this memorial will remember not just our Lee, but also other soldiers.

“I think this is what Lee would have wanted, it is a perfect spot and I am sure he would have been so proud to see the way he is being honoured in his beloved hometown where he enjoyed many special memories.”

Fusilier Rigby was buried in Bury in July last year and his attackers were found guilty earlier this year and sentenced to life imprisonment.

Councillor June West, Chair of Middleton Township, also welcomed the memorial.

She said: “The way the Middleton community came together after Lee’s death was very moving and the township have always committed to ensure the calls for a memorial here were answered.

“I would like to thank local residents for their support and I am pleased that Fusilier Lee Rigby and other servicemen will be forever remembered in this way.”

Hundreds of thousands of pounds were raised in the wake of Lee’s death for Help for Heroes and councillors have praised the outpouring of support for Lee’s family.

Rochdale Council Leader Richard Farnell said: “Since the tragedy I know the support Lee’s family have had from our community has been incredible.”

Lee’s mother also thanked the community for their support.

She said: “Ever since Lee’s passing, the support we have had from local people and the council has been wonderful and during such a painful time has really helped us keep going. Lee will never be forgotten and this is keeping his memory alive.”

The unveiling will be marked by a private ceremony prior to being opened to the public, and further details will be confirmed in January 2015. 

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