Headstones attacked in graveyard

Headstones were damaged at the graveyard

Headstones have been damaged and urns smashed at a County Antrim graveyard.

The vandalism happened in a cemetery beside St Aidan's Church of Ireland church in Glenavy on Thursday.

It is believed children who drink there were responsible for the attack. The minister, Reverend John Rutter, said it was very upsetting.

"It's so different from breaking a window, or abusing somebody verbally, it seems to deny that final resting place," Rev Rutter said.

"It's really the nature of the attack," he added.

"It seems to be an attack on our very existing as human beings, quite apart from politics."

Sinn Fein's Paul Butler condemned the vandals.

"This wanton destruction must be deplored by everyone in the wider community," he said.

"Those involved in this desecration should reflect on how their actions will impact on the families of those buried there."