Hundreds of south Belfast residents turned up at an unprecedented protest last night to demand the removal of paramilitary flags.
The protest was organised after the UVF and other flags were put up in the Global Crescent and Cantrell Close ‘shared neighbourhoods' earlier this month.
Two flags have been hung from the majority of lampposts in the area, which is close to Ravenhill Avenue and Woodstock Road.
Around 250 people attended the rally at Cherryvale Playing Fields, which is near the top of the Ravenhill Road.
The event was chaired by former Nexus director Dominica McGowan which she described as “non-party political”.
She also revealed that a petition demanding the removal of flags and protecting shared neighbourhoods has already attracted almost 2,000 signatures.
“This is a start she said, a beginning, the nucleus of positive action and expresses the view of a significant number of residents.
“This is not a political rally, rather it is an organic response to frustration, fear and lack of action.”
Ms Magowan added “Many of us perceived the hoisting of UVF flags as the final straw.
“Our MP did not respond in a way many of us thought helpful.”
Ravenhill resident Ellen Murray said there “is an appetite for shared spaces in the city.”
