Country's oldest cinema in London vandalised

Police in London are investigating a possible "hate crime" after one of the country's oldest cinemas was vandalised with red graffiti.

Officers were called to the Phoenix Cinema in East Finchley in north London, just after 10 this morning

The cinema which opened in 1912 had reportedly been due to hold a private screening of a documentary looking at the Hamas attack in October last year.

No arrests have so far been made in relation to the incident.

The Met said: "While inquiries are ongoing, at this time the incident is being investigated as a potential hate crime.

"Police had already been made aware of protests expected at the venue regarding a film screening on Thursday night.

"Officers will be there to make sure those attending can protest safely whilst at the same time minimising serious disruption to the community."

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