Investigation Launched After Memorial Destroyed In Warrenpoint

An investigation has launched after damage was caused to a memorial at Narrow Water in Warrenpoint.

Police are treating the incident as a "hate crime".

Poppy wreaths that were laid in memory of 18 British soldiers killed by the IRA in 1979 were destroyed over the weekend.

Ulster Unionist Councillor David Taylor said he was "disgusted" over the incident.

He said: "I am truly disgusted that once again poppy wreaths have been desecrated at the Narrow Water site where 18 soldiers were murdered by the IRA in 1979.

"It is difficult to comprehend the sickening mindset of the individuals who perpetrated this vile act and I know that this most recent incident will be condemned by the vast majority of right thinking people within the local community.

"Unfortunately, incidents of this nature have occurred far too often at Narrow Water, highlighting that there are still those within society who are determined to inflict further pain upon those who lost loved ones through evil acts of terrorism.  The perpetrators of this hate crime are driven by a petty sectarian mentality.

"This latest act of desecration will not deter any of us within the local community who are determined to pay their respects to the soldiers who laid down their lives at Narrow Water in service of our Country.

"Their brave service will never be forgotten and I have no doubt there will continue to be visible displays of remembrance placed at Narrow Water."

(CD)