Statues commemorating the lives of fallen soldiers have been “beheaded” and ripped from their stands.

The statues were vandalised at Purfleet Garrison Community Centre between 8pm on Friday and 10am Saturday, Essex Police have said.

Some of the statues were ripped from their stands and others were broken, with their heads cut off.

Chief Inspector Natalia Ross said: “The statues were put in place to commemorate those who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars.

“They were enjoyed by the community and centre visitors who wanted to pay their respects.

“Sadly, they were damaged – possibly beyond repair – in despicable acts this weekend.

“A dedicated officer has been allocated to the investigation to look into the circumstances and to find those responsible.”

Neighbourhood watch co-ordinator and Purfleet resident Lisa Wright said she was “angered, disappointed and sad” when she saw the vandalism, and has raised £300 to replace them through a fundraising page.

She said: “One row of soldiers has been ripped from its fixings and discarded and vandalised on the floor, and the other row have been beheaded.”

Local councillor Qaisar Abbas reported the damage to Thurrock Council and Essex Police on Saturday.

He told Sky News: “This is unbelievably sad and unacceptable.

“I have reported this to the police and I hope anyone who knows anything will come forward.”

Ms Wright has set up a crowd-funding appeal to repair the damage and £240 was initially raised, topped up by Cllr Abbas to meet the target of £300.

Anyone with information can call Grays police station on 101 quoting crime reference 42/76981/20.

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