The internet troll who harassed Fusilier Lee Rigby's family and claimed his death was a conspiracy has avoided jail

Christopher Spivey, 52, launched a campaign of harassment on social media against Fusilier Lee Rigby’s family in the wake of his death.

The solider, 25, was murdered in broad daylight in May 2013 near Woolwich Barracks.

He died of multiple cut and stab wounds after initially being hit with a car.

Spivey, from Essex, posted comments online claiming the soldier never existed and the story of his murder was a conspiracy to provoke anti-Islamic feelings.

MORE TOP STORIES He refuses to accept he did anything wrong and during his sentencing protested his innocence while standing by his claims.

The grandfather denied harassment and sending grossly offensive messages over social media but was found guilty after a two-day trial at Chelmsford Magistrates' Court.

Sentencing him to six months in prison suspended for two years, Judge John Woollard said: "I have been a district judge for 17 years and very rarely I come across conspiracy theorists like you.

"Experience tells me it's pointless telling you are wrong because you believe I am part of the conspiracy.

"You totally fail to accept that what you were doing had a profound and shattering effect on the family.

Fusilier Lee Rigby

"They had been thrust into the public eye and were bereaved in a terrible way and then they're contacted by somebody like you making the most ridiculous comments and claims.

"All because sitting in your bedroom in Rochford you come to the conclusion that MI5 and various other organisations are conspiring to mislead the public.

"You will be convinced until you die that you are right and everyone else is wrong."

Spivey was also sentenced to a restraining order banning him from posting on blogs or social media and contacting Fusilier Rigby’s family.

Michael Adebolajo was given a whole-life term and Michael Adebowale was jailed for a minimum of 45 years at the Old Bailey for Fusilier Rigby's murder last year.