Littlehampton pays tribute to solider murdered in London

More than a dozen touching condolence messages have been left on the war memorial, in Beach Road, in memory of drummer Lee Rigby, 25, who was hacked to death by Islamic extremists, in Woolwich.

A card on one of the bouquets reads: “The whole nation is in shock after your brutal and senseless death by Muslim extremists. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this very sad time.”

Another says: “The drums will play in heaven...”

David Laker, president of the Royal British Legion branch in Littlehampton, said he was “touched” by the tributes. Mr Laker, who served with the Royal Artillery and was based at the barracks in Woolwich between 1953-55, said: “I think that the whole country is disgusted with the killing of drummer Lee Rigby.

“I know the British Legion certainly is. Most of us are ex-servicemen. This is the sort of thing you expect to see while serving abroad, not outside your barracks in London.”

Michael Adebolajo, 28, and Michael Adebowale, 22, have both been arrested on suspicion of murder.