Murdered British Soldier Named 'Drummer Lee Rigby'

The soldier butchered in broad daylight by Muslim fanatics yesterday has been named by sources as Drummer Lee Rigby.

Lee, 25, is a dad to a young son called Jack and served with 2nd Battalion the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers. He is believed to have served in Afghanistan. And sources say he is separated from his wife. His family were told the tragic news in the early hours last night.

Met police officials are refusing to confirm the name until an autopsy has been completed - planned for this afternoon.

Lieutenant Colonel Jim Taylor MBE said: “Drummer Lee Rigby was a dedicated and professional soldier." He added: "An experienced and talented side drummer and machine gunner, he was a true warrior and served with distinction in Afghanistan, Germany and Cyprus.”

Captain Alan Williamson also paid tribute to the brave soldier. He said: "Drummer Rigby or ‘Riggers’ as he was known within the Platoon was a cheeky and humorous man, always there with a joke to brighten the mood. He was an extremely popular member of the Fire Support Group."

Sergeant Barry Ward praised Lee for being a loving father with a bubbly character. He said: "He was an excellent Drummer, loved his job and was a highly popular member of the Platoon."

Adding: "He was always around when needed and will be sorely missed by all members of the Second Fusiliers Corps of Drums. Once a Fusilier, always a Fusilier."

Warrant Officer Class 1 Ned Miller described the tragic soldier as a "great character" who was "always ready to brighten the mood". He said: "He was easily identified whilst on parade by the huge smile on his face and how proud he was to be a member of the Drums. "He would always stop for a chat just to tell me Manchester United would win the league again."

Source: The Sun