News

Sectarian attack on church

SECTARIAN graffiti has been sprayed on a Presbyterian church in Derry, telling the congregation it was "not welcome here". Republican slogans were daubed on the walls during the attack on Ballyarnett Presbyterian Church.

DUP East Derry MP Gregory Campbell said the incident "must be condemned by everyone in the area" and called for no retaliation. "The graffiti was grossly offensive, sectarian and blatantly anti-Protestant," he said.

Sinn Fein councillor Tony Hassan also condemned the attack which he said did not represent the views of local people. "Despite the words 'You are not welcome' being daubed on the walls I can reassure Reverend Rosborough that he and his church are very much welcome in this area," he said. "There has been a Presbyterian community in Ballyarnett area for many years and I hope for many years in the future."

It is believed the attack took place between Saturday night and Sunday morning.