AN Orange hall was damaged in an arson attack in Co Armagh in the early hours of Sunday.
Scorch damage was caused to Muckery Orange hall, near Derrytrasna, after an oil tank at the back of the building was set alight.
The hall was destroyed in a previous arson attack in 1997.
An Orange Order spokesman said it was the fourth attack on an Orange hall within the last month.
"The mindless delinquents responsible for such sectarian criminality should hang their heads in shame, and must be held accountable for their actions," he said.
"It is extremely fortunate that the consequences of their reckless behaviour was not much more serious."
Upper Bann DUP MLA Carla Lockhart claimed those responsible for the attack had intended to destroy the hall.
"This is a sickening attack on what is a small Protestant population who live peaceably with their neighbours," she said.
"I am saddened to see such an attack on what is an excellent community facility in the area."
She added: "These individuals involved in this attack must be identified and face the full rigours of the law. It is clear that they came prepared to burn the hall to the ground."
