Other News In Brief

Appeal Launched Over Downpatrick Robbery

Detectives in Downpatrick have launched an appeal to identify two men they would like to speak to in connection with an armed robbery which occurred earlier this year.

On 1 July 2013, the men in question were spotted on CCTV a short distance from a garage forecourt where a man was punched and kicked to the ground and robbed at around 9pm.

The victim was also struck on the side of the head with a club hammer during the incident at the Market Street filling station.

Officers investigating the armed robbery would like to identify the two males and speak to them as part of their ongoing investigation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact police on 0845 600 8000.

Funding Announced For Playtrail

Social Development Minister Nelson McCausland has announced funding of £51,404 for Liberty Consortium to manage the Playtrail over the next 18 months.

The Playtrail is a community focused outdoor play and educational facility located within the grounds of two special schools - Belmont House and Foyle View.

In October 2002, Liberty Consortium was established to manage the inclusive play and educational facility for children and young people of all abilities. The Playtrail is accessed by local schools, community groups and local residents.

Minister McCausland said: "The Playtrail delivers an invaluable service to the people of the Outer North Neighbourhood Renewal Area. This funding will allow its Director to continue to develop the services it provides.

"This investment of £51,404 illustrates my continued commitment to the future of the area. This new funding will support the work of Liberty Consortium, allowing them to expand and create employment opportunities."

Man In Court On Robbery Charges

A man is due to appear in court today (13 December) after being charged with attempted robbery.

It follows an incident which occurred at a shop in Armagh on Thursday.

The man, understood to be 26-years-old, has been charged with attempted robbery, common assault and three counts of threats to kill.

He is expected to appear before Newry Magistrates Court.

Police Revisit Scene Of Attempted Murder

Police investigating the attempted murder of officers in a gun attack one week ago have revisited the scene in an attempt to gather crucial evidence.

Last Thursday (5 December), a Kalashnikov-type gun was used to shoot at police vehicles in north Belfast as they travelled along the Crumlin Road. Ten shots from the military-grade weapon hit two police cars which were towing digital signs through a residential area at the Ardoyne interface at around 7.10pm.

No police officers or members of the public were harmed in the attack.

At the time of the incident, parishioners were attending Mass at Holy Cross Church at the time and detectives have now returned to the area to distribute leaflets and talk to people at the church.

Police have said they are particularly interested in the movements of a car believed to have been used by the gunmen.

They have appealed for anyone who noticed the movements of a silver Volkswagen Passat, registration number ICZ 9780, between 5pm and 7pm on Thursday evening in the Ardoyne area, to contact them.

In addition, anyone who saw any suspicious activity in the Butler Walk, Butler Place, Brompton Park or Herbert Street areas is asked to contact detectives in Antrim Road Police Station on 0845 600 8000.

Alternatively, people can contact the Crimestoppers charity anonymously on 0800 555 111.

(JP/CD)