Church destroyed in arson attack

Police blieve that a fire which badly damaged a church in Newtownabbey was caused by arsonists.

The interior of Whitehouse Presbyterian Church on the Shore Road was gutted in the blaze which was discovered at about 3.30am this morning.

A number of vehicles in an adjoining car dealership were also destroyed in the attack. The church's minister, the Reverend Liz Hughes, described the attack as a "blow for the local community".

However, despite the attack Rev Hughes confirmed that services were planned for the weekend in the adjoining church hall which was not damaged in the incident. Plans are already underway to rebuild the church at the same location.

NIO Minister Des Browne condemned the overnight attack, and said attacks on churches were "particularly repugnant".

He added: “The thugs who carry out these despicable acts have nothing to offer the people of Northern Ireland but more pain and suffering. They bring shame and contempt on themselves and whatever misconceived cause they think they represent.

“I appeal to the whole community to support the police in their efforts to bring those responsible for this pathetic attack to justice."

The MP for the area, the DUP's Nigel Dodds, also expressed his sympathy to worshippers at the church.

Mr Dodds appealed for people to cooperate with the investigation into the incident, as did Alliance Assembly member for East Antrim Sean Neeson, who said it was time for the community to assist the police in bringing "these bigoted desecrators to justice".

Police forensic officers were still examining the scene on Friday afternoon.

(MB)