04/10/2002

Petrol bomb attack on Catholic church condemned

Ulster Unionist Assembly member for East Antrim, Ken Robinson has condemned the latest attack on a Catholic Church in Newtownabbey on Thursday evening.

Hitting out at those who petrol bombed St Mary's on the Hill in Glengormley, Mr Robinson said such activities had to stop. He added: "We are a forward-thinking and progressive community with a mixed population and this type of sinister behaviour takes us back to the darker days of the Troubles.

"The people of East Antrim have had enough to endure over the last number of days with severe jobs losses. We do not need this further pain inflicted on us."

The attack on the church occurred at around 10.30pm on Thursday evening causing scorch damage to the porch.

It was reported that a small man, wearing a cream cap and with his face covered was seen running from the area following the incident.

A similar attack took place on the church in June.

Police have removed items from the scene for forensic examination.

Parish priest Father Dan White said he was becoming "sick and tired" of the constant attacks on the church.

(MB)

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