The floral tributes were destroyed at the Stone of Remembrance in the early hours of Monday 14 November. Police Scotland believe the fire was started deliberately at around 5am. Footage on social media shows the charred remains of the poppies. Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon was among hundreds of people who gathered to pay their respects at the memorial in the city center on Sunday. The Superintendent of Edinburgh described the attack as “disgusting and disrespectful”. Robert Altridge told Sky News: “Yesterday I was honored to lay a wreath on behalf of the city of Edinburgh to remember those who served and sacrificed so much. “The vandalism discovered this morning not only on the recently laid wreaths, but also on Edinburgh’s Stone of Remembrance is disgusting and disrespectful. Related articles: King leads first Remembrance Sunday service Hottest Remembrance Day on record Rishi Sunak must give devolved administrations ‘due respect’, says Sturgeon “We remain at a loss as to why someone could do something like this, which has caused great upset to everyone who respects the memories of all who serve their country.” Police Scotland are now examining CCTV footage in a bid to gather information. Picture: [L to R] The Lord Provost of Edinburgh Robert Aldridge, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and Presiding Officer of the Scottish Parliament Alison Johnston during the Remembrance Sunday service and parade in Edinburgh. Chief Inspector Murray Tait said: “Our inquiries are continuing after poppy wreaths were set on fire at the war memorial in Edinburgh’s High Street at around 5am on Monday 14 November. “Officers are carrying out inquiries and collecting CCTV footage to find out more information about whoever is responsible. “I absolutely condemn this heinous act of vandalism, especially at this time of year when commemorations have just taken place across the country.” It is understood the dilapidated tributes have been removed and will be replaced by the Poppy Scotland charity.
