A menorah symbolising the Jewish faith was torn down in an act of "hatred and cowardice".

The Metropolitan Police is investigating damage to the menorah in Kingswood Avenue outside Queens Park recreational ground after it was reported on Thursday (December 14).

It is believed it was deliberately damaged, a Met spokesperson said.

"Officers are in touch with the victim, and we are making fast time enquiries to identify and locate a suspect," they added.

Sam Magnus-Stoll posted the damage on her X thread, adding: "This is my local Hanukkiah this morning - only four days after the bulbs were stolen and a sticker about the war left in the middle. I don’t know how this needs saying but destroying Jewish symbols isn’t an act of resistance or solidarity. It’s an act of hatred and cowardice."

On Thursday evening the community gathered to light candles again in solidarity.

Westminster North MP Karen Buck said: "Here tonight in Queen’s Park as an act of solidarity as the menorah candles are lit once again. As @samanthadmagnus said, destroying Jewish symbols isn’t an act of resistance, it strikes at the heart of something very precious - our ability to live well together as neighbours."

A menorah is a nine-branched candelabrum lit during the eight-day Jewish holiday of Hanukkah.

No arrests have been made.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 quoting CAD 2238/14DEC23.