Eggs thrown at children returning from Twelfth parade

AN attack on children in Coalisland who were returning from a Twelfth parade has been branded “a disgrace”.

The frightening attack in which eggs were thrown, was carried out by three youths aged approximately 16 years, who targeted four children aged between five and nine. The incident happened at the Orange Hall in Birneys Square, Coalisland on Tuesday evening at around 5.30pm.

Police have confirmed that “none of the children were reported to have been hit, however, several of the cars were struck, but not left permanently damaged”.

Outlining the details of the incident on their social media page on Tuesday night, a spokesperson for Killyman District Lodge No. 1 said, “All we ask is that our culture is respected not attacked”.

UUP councillor Walter Cuddy, who is a member of Castlecaulfield District Orange Lodge, said those responsible should be “ashamed of themselves” adding that they have “upset the reputation of the town”.

“Coalisland Orange Lodge accordion band is a small family affair. It is very difficult for small groups like that to keep going these days. It is a disgrace what happened and a very poor reflection of society. We had a wonderful day at Castlecaulfield with families out enjoying themselves. These youths are absolute idiots. They need to grow up a bit and be more sensible. We have a mixed society that must tolerate each other, and we do.”

The UUP councillor called on the families of the culprits to “reflect on what happened and make sure it doesn’t happen again”.

He added, “They are lovely wee children in that band, maybe enjoying their first Twelfth. For someone to do that, they should be ashamed of themselves. Coalisland is shaking that perception and the town is looking great. It is encouraging visitors and an incident like this sets back the good reputation it is building. It is very annoying.”

Local Sinn Féin MLA Linda Dillon said the attack was “not acceptable”.

Mrs Dillon added, “An attack of this nature on children is not representative of the community in Coalisland. People of all traditions, race, colour and creed live in our community and they do so happily. This is not acceptable.”

Independent councillor Dan Kerr who is from Coalisland also stated that the actions of the teenagers was “not reflective of young people from this area”.

He added, “It is disappointing to hear this and overwhelmingly young people in Coalisland offer positivity to the community.”

Police enquiries are ongoing and anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information which could assist with their enquiries is asked to contact Dungannon on 101, quoting reference number 1652 12/07/22.

Alternatively a report can be made anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

On Sunday evening, Union flags were ripped down during a vandalism attack at the Twelfth field in Castlecaulfield.

The damage was caused as the south Tyrone village prepared to host a major march on Tuesday with hundreds of Orangemen taking part.

DUP councillor Clement Cuthbertson expressed his anger, describing it as a “hate motivated attack on Protestant / Unionist Culture yet again”.