Memorial for Lee Rigby unveiled in his hometown

A permanent memorial to murdered soldier Lee Rigby will be unveiled today in his hometown in Middleton, Greater Manchester.

Pictures: Lest We Forget - memorial to Fusilier Lee Rigby revealed

A bronze drum, alongside a plaque for Fusilier Rigby will be located at Middleton Memorial Gardens, together with a memorial wall where in time other local soldiers will be commemorated.

The memorial will be unveiled in a private ceremony before being opened to the public later.

Fusilier Rigby, 25, who was a drummer with the 2nd Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, was killed outside his barracks in Woolwich, south-east London, in May 2013 by two Islamic extremists.

Welcoming the memorial, his mother, Lyn, said: "It will be a lovely tribute to Lee who put his life on the line every day to serve his country.

"Over time the memorial will remember not just our Lee but other soldiers whose bravery will also never be forgotten."

Fusilier Rigby's wife, Rebecca, said: "I am pleased this memorial is being unveiled in Middleton.

"It should be seen as a celebration of his life because that is what he would have wanted. People will be able to come here in peace, remember Lee and reflect."