An attack on Edinburgh's Garden of Remembrance has been described as disrespectful and malicious by two charities

Malicious vandals have been slammed after damaging Edinburgh’s Garden of Remembrance.

Volunteers from Poppyscotland discovered extensive damage to the memorial garden, which is next to Princes Street Gardens, on Saturday morning (3 November).

Wreaths were scattered, crosses uprooted and a wooden sign was knocked over. Police are investigating and have asked for anyone who witnessed the incident to come forward.

Edinburgh’s Lord Provost Frank Ross, who officially opened the garden of remembrance on Monday, said: “It is deeply troubling to think this damage could be the result of vandalism. In the lead up to Armistice Day and the centenary of the First World War, the garden of remembrance is Edinburgh’s tribute to the fallen and the idea of it being treated with anything but the utmost respect is devastating.

“We share the concerns raised by Poppyscotland about what happened and the council is working closely with the police to establish how the damage took place. I urge anyone with information to contact the police immediately.”

In a joint statement Poppyscotland and Legion Scotland said: “This is a truly deplorable and disrespectful act of malicious violence which has caused immense upset to countless people.

“The Garden and Field of Remembrance is a very special place and thousands of locals and visitors alike spend time reflecting and remembering there each year.

“Hundreds of hours are spent by our staff and volunteers planting more than 8000 remembrance symbols that are returned to us by supporters across the country. Scores of remembrance wreaths are laid by representatives of a wide spectrum of organisations during a service to remember the fallen at the opening of the garden.”