Vandals who defaced a mural of Queen Elizabeth II less than 24 hours after it was finished have been slammed.
The black and white tribute to Britain's longest monarch was created in Taunton, Somerset, last week - but has already been ruined by mindless vandals.
It was created by graffiti artist Sam Gaden who painted the tribute to the Queen, who tragically passed away at 96-years-old last week.
The Aerosol Art member revealed he created the full-wall tribute for people in the town to enjoy during these sad times.
But it didn't take long for a select few to vandalise the incredible tribute, Somerset Live reports.
The painted picture of the Queen was finished on Kingston Road and long after it was created vandals spray painted the words "pay inheritance tax" across Her Majesty's face.
The cowardly act has upset many people in the town who agreed the quality of the mural was a fitting tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.
Somerset Live editor David Shepherd was one of many to be outraged about the attack on the mural.
Mr Shepherd, who lives near the mural, said: “This mural hasn't long been finished and for it to be vandalised within what seems to be just 24 hours is quite frankly sad.
"Numerous people have commented on the quality of the mural, how it is such a touching tribute to the Queen, and those who live nearest are quite rightly proud to have it there.
"It’s on a busy stretch of road and was in an ideal location due to the many people who will pass it daily.
"And with the funeral tomorrow, the timing couldn’t have been better.
"It’s just a shame it’s been tarnished by a bitter minority."
Queen Elizabeth II will be the first monarch to have her funeral at Westminster Abbey since 1760 with the service due to start at 11am tomorrow.
