Alliance representative Helena Young has criticised those who vandalised graves in Monks Hill cemetery overnight.

Speaking after she checked on the grave of two loved ones at the burial site, Helena said she was devastated to see the destruction caused to such a sacred place.

She added: “It is just simply heart breaking to see the grief and pain caused to the many grieving families who have been targeted in such a vile, vicious way.

“Thankfully the grave of my husband and mother were left untouched, but seems to have been just a case of good luck and I’m outraged at what seems to be an attack with no real reasoning.

“As a community we face enough challenges in the fight against Covid-19, it is absolutely disgusting that some people want to detract from this in such a disappointing way. I would urge anyone with information to contact the PSNI as soon as possible.”