A PETITION has been launched to keep the Forbury Gardens lion lit up as a tribute to the three victims of last month's terror attack.

Plans for a permanent memorial are being discussed, but the temporary lights are due to be taken down soon.

The petition reads: "It has been so lovely to see the lion in Forbury Gardens lit up to memorialise the recent tragic events.

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"It is set to end soon, however many friends and family of our fallen friends have expressed desire for this to remain.

"If you agree, please sign the petition below.

"There are grander plans in motion to do a more impressive long term memorial, but short term, we would love your support to get our lion lit to show our love permanently."

The lion, which has become an iconic symbol of Reading's solidarity and strength since the attack, was recently lit up to honour Joe Ritchie-Bennett, James Furlong and David Wails - the three men who were killed when a lone attacker began stabbing people while they sat in Forbury Gardens.

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Reading Pride posted the petition on Twitter this week, saying: "@TheBlaBlaRDG has set up a petition to ask @ReadingCouncil to keep the lights to remember James, Joe and David on until a permanent memorial is in place."

A spokesman from Reading Borough Council said: "We're pleased it has been so well received and completely understand why people may want to make this permanent.

"This will considered in due course and alongside the council’s intention for a permanent memorial, which we have committed to and which will be worked on in close consultation with the families of the victims, all those harmed and the local community."

Khairi Saadallah, 25, has been is charged with three counts of murder and three counts of attempted murder following the incident which shook the town on June 20.