Mayor to re-lay wreath after latest Glengormley War Memorial attack

Police are investigating as a hate crime a further attack on Glengormley War Memorial.
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It is thought the incident occurred last night (Thursday) with wreaths burned and scorch damage caused to the Ballyclare Road memorial.

A PSNI spokesperson said: “Police are investigating damage caused to the cenotaph at Lilian Bland Park. Police have attended the scene and local neighbourhood officers will be in the area making further enquiries today (Friday).

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“Anyone with information about this incident, which is being treated as a hate crime, is asked to ring 101 and quote reference 497 of April 2nd. A report can also be made using the online reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/makeareport”

Cllr Jim Montgomery at Glengormley War Memorial following last month's attack.Cllr Jim Montgomery at Glengormley War Memorial following last month's attack.
Cllr Jim Montgomery at Glengormley War Memorial following last month's attack.

It is the second incident at the location in recent weeks. In March, the Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Jim Montgomery, relaid a wreath at the memorial after vandalism earlier in the month. And he is to do the same following the latest attack.

The Ulster Unionist representative said: “I am horrified that there has been a second targeted attack on Glengormley War Memorial. This contemptible attack is extremely disrespectful and insulting not only to those who lost their lives to give us the freedom we enjoy today, but also to the people of our borough.

“I wholly condemn this behaviour. Despicable hate crimes of this nature will not stop the people in the borough who wish to, remembering those who fought and in many cases sacrificed their lives to protect our freedom.

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“I would appeal to anyone who has information on this cowardly act to contact the PSNI.”

His views were echoed by the Deputy Mayor, SDLP Councillor Noreen McClelland.

She said: “I am appalled and angry to learn that a second attack has occurred at the war memorial in Glengormley. This site was vandalised just weeks ago and after being restored by the local community, it has been targeted once again.

“These hateful attacks have greatly angered and upset the local community in Glengormley. Those committing them have no support and should desist.

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“Glengormley War Memorial is a place where people who wish to can reflect and pay respect to those who lost their lives during the first and second world wars. It is an important area in our shared community.

“I urge those with any information as to who is committing these attacks to contact the PSNI.”

Alternatively, information can be provided to Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org

Click here to read: Mayor pays tribute to War fallen after hate crime at Glengormley memorial

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