Man 'Tests' Laser Pen On Police Helicopter

A man who shone a laser pen at a police helicopter during rioting in Belfast claims he was only testing how far it could reach.

The High Court has been told William Adair was trying out a Christmas present at his home when he went out for a smoke.

Mr Adair’s actions coincided with violent rioting over the union flag restrictions at Belfast City Hall.

The 28-year-old of Loopland Road, Belfast, was denied bail.

He faces charges of endangering the safety of an aircraft and shining a light to dazzle or distract the pilot.

His arrest came after the PSNI helicopter was able to track the source of projection of the laser to Mr Adair’s home.

Mr Adair admits shining the pen but said he only did so out of curiosity and did not intend to cause harm.

Cars Stolen During De-Icing

Police are encouraging motorists to be vigilant when de-icing cars in the morning, after six cars in Belfast were stolen within the space of 90 minutes while the engines were left running.

A vehicle was stolen in north Belfast and four others in the south and east between 07:30 and 09:00.

The thefts happened because the cars’ owners had left their vehicles running with the keys in the ignition.

Police said this was a "gift" to thieves.

Man In Hospital Following Assault

A man is being treated in hospital after being assaulted and robbed.

The victim, in his 70s, was in his parked car in Stiles Way in Antrim some time before 20:00 on Tuesday night when two men told him he had an oil leak.

The man then got out of his car and one of the two men hit him on the head and stole money.

The robbers are believed to have been in their 20s and were wearing scarves over their faces and dak clothing.

Belfast High School Closure Approved

Education Minister John O'Dowd has approved the closure of St Gemma's High School in Belfast.

The move follows a review of post-primary education for the north Belfast and Glengormley area.

Minister O’Dowd said: "I appreciate that St Gemma’s High School has forged very close links with the Ardoyne community which it has served over the past 45 years and that its closure will be a disappointment to those who have been closely associated with the school during this time.

"Unfortunately, the sharply declining enrolments at St Gemma’s meant that the school was increasingly unable to provide the full range and quality of curricular offer that is required, particularly at the GCSE and post-16 phases.

"I know that every effort will be made by those involved to ensure that the transition arrangements for the children go smoothly and I wish the staff and the pupils of St Gemma’s well for the future."

(IT/GK)