BBC News Online: UK: Northern Ireland

Riot police called to school attack

The incident happened at Holy Cross primary on Ardoyne Road in the north of the city, on the interface with a loyalist area.

Police described the attack as "vicious" during which they had to separate rival groups after a stand-off developed.

Loyalists said the trouble began after men putting up flags were attacked.

Tension

There has been tension in the area since a loyalist Orange Order parade on 15 June, when there were some minor skirmishes.

Local RUC commander Chief Inspector Roger Maxwell appealed for people of good will on all sides of the community to use their influence to prevent such incidents.

The violence, initially involving mainly children, was the latest sign of rising tensions on the streets as the height of the traditional marching season nears.