A COUNCIL is urging people to reclaim tributes to drummer Lee Rigby from war memorials before it starts the annual cleaning and maintenance of the sites.

Thurrock Council undertakes the clear up of war memorials aspart of its regular summer schedule of works and has given people until June 17 to clear the items.

The council wants to ensure that, should any person who placed a tribute wish to keep it, they should be able to do so.

The council will also collect all non-perishable items and store them for a short period, should people be unable to collect the item before June 17.

Lucy Magill, the council’s director for environment, said: “We understand the significance of the tributes that have been placed at the war memorials over recent weeks and we are in contact with the Help for Heroes charity to see if we can pass on the written condolences to the family of Drummer Lee Rigby.

“Unfortunately, it is imperative that the memorials are properly cleaned and prepared so they are in pristine condition for the summer and autumn, and for events such as Fly the Flag Day, on June 24, and the Remembrance services in November.”

If anyone wants a tribute stored they can call the council on 01375 413615 or e-mail brbenson@thurrock.gov.uk