'˜Depraved' attack on Belfast war memorial condemned

Vandalism at a First World War memorial in north Belfast has been condemned as 'depraved' by a local MLA.

William Humphrey of the DUP was commenting after the removal of nine poppy wreaths and flags at the Woodvale Park tribute to all those who died during the Great War.

placeholder image — The European Great War Memorial in Woodvale Park from which flags and poppy wreaths were removed in attacks over the past week

Mr Humphrey said those responsible were “beneath contempt,” but praised the response of the City of Belfast Army Benevolent Fund (ABF), who erected the memorial in 2014, and Belfast City Council parks staff in repairing the damage.

Commenting after visiting the memorial, Mr Humphrey said: “I am disgusted and appalled at the violation and vandalism of this beautiful war memorial.”

ABF branch vice-chairman Sam Coulter said: “It is very sad that anyone would disrespect this memorial and it is a poor reflection on their lack of historical awareness.”