SICK vandals ' beheaded' and decapitated iconic World War One statues

A collection of Tommys were installed at the Purfleet Heritage Centre and Military Museum, in Centurion Way, to commemorate those who lost their lives in the First and Second World Wars two-years-ago.

However over the weekend heartless vandals targeted one set of statues, removing the heads from the soldiers.

Some of the other statues have also been damaged or removed from where they stood.

Last year thieves stole the plaque of names on Purfleet's war memorial.

Councillor Qaisar Abbas reported the incident to Thurrock Council and Essex Police on Saturday.

Essex Police are investigating the vandalism.

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.”