The Royal British Legion will lay two wreaths today to replace those that were removed prematurely by Waltham Forest Council.

Stan Bonner, chairman of the Chingford branch of the Legion will lay a wreath from the citizens of the borough and another to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Dambusters raid.

Residents had complained when around 25 wreaths were removed without warning earlier this month from the memorial on Kings Head Hill.

Mr Bonner said: “Wreaths should be left year-round.

“If you come and look at it there’s nothing there, it’s bare, whereas other years we’ve had the wreaths there until we lay the new ones.”

He said that those in the British Legion think it’s important to make sure people who have died in wars are recognised and honoured.

After speculation the wreaths may have been removed because they become unsightly Mr Bonner said the wreaths they lay are artificial and don’t degrade at all through the year.

Mr Bonner’s wife, Sharon who is a member of the Chingford branch, said: “It was just a mistake made by someone who didn’t realise how important these things are, the council have been good about it.”

She added that the council has apologised to the Chingford branch.

The confusion has resulted in the council arranging to change its policy over when wreaths should be removed.