Memorial in Rochdale for stabbed Drummer Lee Rigby

A permanent memorial is to be built in Greater Manchester in memory of Drummer Lee Rigby.

Drummer Rigby, of the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers, was stabbed to death near his Army barracks in Woolwich, south-east London, in May.

Rochdale Council announced plans for a "lasting tribute" to the soldier from Middleton, whose military funeral will take place in Bury on 12 July.

Two men are due to go on trial in November accused of his murder.

Council leader Colin Lambert said: "We are planning, along with his family, to provide a lasting tribute to Lee which is befitting to his memory and bravery."

There are no details of the location or what form the memorial will take.

Meanwhile, the Corps of Drums Society is commissioning a ceremonial drummer's sword for the family of Drummer Rigby to hold in trust for their son.

Michael Adebolajo, 28, from Romford, east London, and Michael Adebowale, 22, from Greenwich, south-east London, are accused of Drummer Rigby's murder.

Mr Adebolajo is also charged with the attempted murder of two police officers and possession of a firearm with intent to cause others to believe that violence would be used.