Peace bridge damaged by vandals

11 July 2011 Last updated at 16:05 GMT The city's new bridge is the same length as two and a half football pitches Vandals have damaged Londonderry's 'peace bridge' across the river Foyle.

Police said they received a report about the damage on Monday afternoon. Sinn Fein councillor Colly Kelly said two large glass panels on the bridge had been smashed.

"Thousands of people have used the bridge since it opened a fortnight ago and it has proved to be a very positive asset to our city centre," he said.

"We cannot allow a small number of individuals to undo that good work."

The bridge, which is 312 metres long, was built at a cost of ?14.6m and is designed for pedestrians and cyclists.

View the original article here

Tyrone school attacked by vandals

13 July 2011 Last updated at 16:11 GMT A County Tyrone school has been targeted by vandals who smashed 30 windows in the building.

A small fire was also started and a gate-house damaged at Strabane Grammar School on the Liskey Road on Tuesday.

Sinn Fein MLA Michaela Boyle said the attack was the fourth on the school so far this month.

Speaking after visiting the scene, she said she believed the damage had been caused by youths bent on recreational violence.

"What we were met with was total, total destruction, 30 double-glazed windows in Portacabins smashed, paint spilled all around the school inside and out, a lot of damage inside and a gate-house at the front of the school completely gutted," Ms Boyle said.

"It's just deplorable. It's sickening."

Police are investigating the incident which was just one of several public disorder incidents that happened in the town.

View the original article here