Other News In Brief

Man Arrested And Scrambler Seized In L'Derry

A man has been arrested and a scrambler bike seized by Ballyarnett Neighbourhood officers on cycle patrol in Galliagh in L'Derry at the weekend.

The bike was seized after officers observed the scrambler being driven on the footpath, heading into Cashel Hill Park. The rider was subsequently spoken to by police and arrested on suspicion of offences including driving when unfit through drink or drug, dangerous driving, using a motor vehicle without insurance and no 'L' plates displayed. He was also arrested on suspicion of assault on police, and on suspicion of possession of a Class A controlled drug. He's since been released on police bail to allow for further enquiries.

Ballyarnett Neighbourhood Sergeant McCollum said: "We know this is an issue of concern in the community, and we want to reassure you it's one we take seriously. Not only is there the impact on people's lives in the community, but there are also serious safety concerns."

Sergeant McCollum added: "We understand the use of such motorised vehicles as a leisure activity can be fun, but those who use them must understand that, if used inappropriately, this can be against the law in certain circumstances.

"Some scramblers, do not comply with Construction and Use Regulations and Vehicle Safety Standards and therefore are restricted to "off-road" use only. This does not mean that they can be driven anywhere off-road. These vehicles should only be driven on private land where the landowner has given permission and should not be driven on pavements, roads, public property or parks. Insurance and safety equipment must be complied with as well in order to drive these vehicles legally.

"To anyone thinking about buying these vehicles, we urge them to first think about where it is going to be used and the legalities surrounding its' use.

"If anyone knows of people doing this please contact 101 or if you wish to remain anonymous Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111."

Greens Welcome New Financial Assistance In Ards And North Down

The Green Party NI has welcomed a successful final attempt to establish financial assistance for those who need it in Ards and North Down.

Representative for Holywood and Clandeboye, Cllr Rachel Woods, said: "A report was brought back to Council last night which recommended that Council noted its contents and recognised the financial situation being faced currently, along with a number of options outlined by Officers. I submitted an amendment tonight after a Special Council meeting was held in January on fuel poverty and hardship in the Borough, to a proposal by the UUP to establish a fund of £50,000 to be made available from current reserves for a funding stream to be used by local foodbanks and other partners in our Borough, if willing. This is not a silver bullet, nor will it help everyone, but it is a start."

The Green Party Councillor said: "Anyone reading the report presented to the Council this evening who is not feeling ashamed and disgusted at what has become of our so called developed society needs to take a look at themselves. We heard that lots of people who are asking for help across our Borough's support organisations work full time and fall outside the criteria for free school meals and don't get help with childcare costs, we heard that demand for Bangor Foodbank has increased 88%. There has been an increase in illegal money lending from organised crime groups, the fact that we have warm spaces operating, there are increasing levels of loneliness because of the cost of living by younger and older age group, that poverty exists in Ards and North Down - of course it does, it always has.

"I do not think that Council should only signpost, or rely on other funding streams to help people in this current crisis but step up. We have a lot to do to sort this out long term, but in the short term if we can help as a council I think that we should, even in a small way to identified partners. In an ideal world more would be distributed, to community organisations supporting people, however the appetite was not there this time.

"I thank all members for for supporting this third attempt by the Green Party NI to introduce this to try and help those who need it, even in the very shortest of terms."

Appeal For Information On Ballycastle Burglary

Detectives are appealing for information and witnesses following the report of a burglary at a house in the Moyarget Road area of Ballycastle.

It is believed that the burglary occurred sometime overnight between Saturday, 28th January and Sunday, 29th January.

A number of items were taken including some things of great sentimental value to the householder.

Detective Sergeant Stewart said: "Our investigation into this burglary is underway and we would appreciate the assistance of the public in our enquiries.

"We'd like to hear from anyone who noticed anything suspicious in the Moyarget Road area overnight on Saturday from 9.30pm to Sunday at 5am, any vehicles being driven in an odd manner or anyone on foot.

"Also if you have any dash-cam or CCTV footage, we'd ask that this is reviewed and if there is anything captured that could be of assistance to our investigation, please call us on 101 quoting reference number 438 29/01/23."

You can also submit a report online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport/, contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org.