The vandalism of Pride flags painted on a pavement in north-east London is being investigated as a hate crime, the Metropolitan Police has said.

Officers were called on Sunday after a large LGBTQ+ flag on the paving outside Forest Gate railway station was defaced with red paint.

A further report was made on Wednesday after it was repainted, only to be targeted again.

Reece Jackson, who lives in Forest Gate, said: “Our community is deeply hurt and angered by these hateful actions.”

He described the vandalism as “a deeply troubling series of events”.

“The Pride flags are a symbol of love, acceptance, and inclusivity,” said Mr Jackson.

“These repeated acts of vandalism are not just attacks on our flags but on the very values they represent.”

A Met spokesperson said the force understood “how intimidating this sort of offence can be” and appealed for witnesses.

“We remain committed to rooting out hate crime offenders and preventing further incidents,” said the spokesperson.

“I would like to reassure the community that we are taking these offences very seriously and we are carrying out a thorough investigation to bring the perpetrator or perpetrators to justice.

“This type of offending will not be tolerated.”