Residents And Police Attacked At L'Derry Bonfire

Residents and police officers came under attack last night at a bonfire in the Lecky Road area of L'Derry.

It is understood that residents in the area were attacked with bottles and rock by people gathered for the bonfire. When police responded to reports of the attacks, they also came under attack by petrol bombs, rocks and bottles.

There were no reports of any injuries sustained during the trouble.

Another bonfire is due to be lit tonight, Tuesday 15 August, and police have appealed to people in the community to "use their influence to control the situation" in an effort to avoid a repeat of Monday night's incidents.

Additional police will be deployed at tonights bonfire.

Sinn Féin councillor Patricia Logue said: "These attacks on members of the public and the PSNI were wrong and must be condemned.

"The local community does not want these attacks and those responsible have nothing to offer.

"This is one of the many incidents of anti-social behaviour associated with this bonfire which is being built on a banking overlooking the Bogside.

"We know all too well what happens at these type of bonfires and we are opposed to the burning of flags and posters on bonfires and associated hate crimes whether they are in Nailor's Row or Sandy Row.

"There is a positive alternative to this bonfire through the Gasyard Féile and I would encourage the local community and the wider city to get behind this positive community event."

(MH/LM)