An Israeli flag outside a Hertfordshire town council building has been defaced and daubed in red paint.

Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council believe that the building in Brook Close, Borehamwood, was targeted in the early hours of this morning (November 2).

Red paint covered the flag and a metal hook was left hanging from a pipe underneath it. Free Palestine posters were also left outside the building.

Town mayor councillor Rebecca Challice said: “This appalling hate crime will only strengthen our collective resolve to fight terror, support peace and work to build positive community relations.”

Watford Observer: The flag daubed in red paint.The flag daubed in red paint. (Image: Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council)

The flag was put up on October 9, in solidarity with Elstree and Borehamwood’s twin town Shoham in central Israel.

At the time, a council statement said: “On behalf of Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council we utterly condemn these terrorist atrocities and stand with those who are suffering unimaginable pain and grief.”

Watford Observer: The flag when it was put up on October 9.The flag when it was put up on October 9. (Image: Elstree and Borehamwood Town Council)

“We offer our support to the residents of our own town who have been affected both directly and indirectly by these events and who are feeling particularly vulnerable right now,” the statement added.

“It is important that we come together as a community to support one another during these challenging times and we pray for a peaceful solution to the conflict.”