Arsonists target Ballykinlar store

Arsonists target Ballykinlar store

20 May 2020

A STORE adjacent to changing rooms at a soccer pitch in Ballykinlar was targeted by arsonists on Monday night.

Firefighters were called to the Commons Road building after local people raised the alarm.

Last month, the changing rooms were extensively damaged in a previous arson attack.

It is understood that Monday night’s fire was started at the entrance to the store at the Badger Park soccer pitches, but did not take a major hold.

The Ballykinlar pitch is owned by Newry, Mourne and Down Council.

South Down MLA Colin McGrath describing the attack as a “disgraceful act of wanton vandalism”.

He said there is no place in society for such action which ultimately robs the whole community of local services and facilities.

“Such actions are never undertaken in isolation and somebody, somewhere knows who did this,” declared Mr McGrath.

“I would urge anyone who knows anything about the incident to provide it to police to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for the damage to this community facility.”

Police investigating the incident are keen to hear from anyone who can assist them with their enquiries.

Anyone who believes that they may be able to help is asked to contact officers using the non-emergency 101 number. Information can also be passed anonymously using the confidential Crimestoppers number 0800 555111.