Vandals target community centre

It is thought a laptop computer was also stolen

Vandals have caused damage amounting to thousands of pounds to a community centre on the outskirts of west Belfast.

The Colin Family Centre in Poleglass was broken into several times during the Easter weekend.

The latest break-in happened on Sunday evening.

Down Lisburn Trust said it would have to review the provision of services at the support centre because of the serious vandalism.

Computers and televisions were smashed, furniture overturned, taps turned on and the floor flooded. It is thought a laptop computer was also stolen.

Neighbourhood watch volunteers described the scene as one of "wanton destruction".

Local co-ordinator, Michael George, said a lot of damage had been done to hi-tech equipment.

He said furniture had also been "trashed" and chairs left out in the car park.

In a statement, Down Lisburn Trust said it was "tremendously disappointed that such wanton destruction should have been wreaked on this building which has been a valuable asset to the local community".

"As a result of this weekend, once costs have been obtained for the repair of the building, the trust will have to review the future provision of services.

"Unfortunately, in the short-term, the trust will be unable to make available the full range of services which had been provided at this centre."

SDLP assembly member Patricia Lewsley described the incidents as "extreme, systematic" and "sinister".

"It takes years to build up a centre like this to serve the needs of local people. They are the victims of this mindless thuggery," she said.