Police are investigating the circumstances afer petrol bomb was thrown at the church premises in the border area, as parishoners played bowls.

The attack occurred at the Clogh Memorial Hall near Rosslea at approximately 10.15pm on Wednesday.

It is believed up to a dozen people were in the hall at the time of the attack, including children and pensioners.

The device failed to ignite and no damage was reported.

DUP MLA Arlene Foster pointed the finger of blame at rogue elements within republicanism.

"This is a deliberate attack on that community while they were at a bowling night in the hall," she said.

"It also raises concerns about dissident republican activity in that area. It is sectarian and who else would it be in that area?"

Meanwhile, in Newtownabbey a pipe bomb exploded after it was thrown at a car on Wednesday evening.

Army technical officers were called to examine the device while a security alert was put in place.

The object was taken away for further examination.

Police have appealed for further information concerning both incidents.