Banner denouncing homosexuality at A1 near Dromore

A banner denouncing homosexuality has appeared at a busy lay-by with a chequered history near Dromore.
Religious banner at McKee's Dam near HillsboroughReligious banner at McKee's Dam near Hillsborough
Religious banner at McKee's Dam near Hillsborough

McKee’s Dam, on the northbound side of the A1 dual carriageway, hit the headlines in 2008 after the area was listed online as a meeting place for gay sex.

The reports led to claims that local people were deterred from visiting the area out of fear they could be mistaken for the website’s users.

The new banner, which has been tied to some trees and is visible from the main road, bears a Bible verse.

It reads: “Thou shalt not lie with mankind, as with womankind: it is an abomination. Leviticus 18:22.”

However, the PSNI has said it has no evidence to suggest any illegal activity is taking place.

Chief Inspector Derek McCamley said: “Police in Lisburn are not aware of any complaints in relation to this type of activity in this specific area.

“However anyone with any information can contact the police on 101.”

A spokeswoman for the local council also said they were not aware of any problems.

She said: “Lisburn and Castlereagh City Council has not received any official complaints in relation to activities at McKee’s Dam.”

In 1981, images of McKee’s Dam were broadcast around the UK when the body of missing schoolgirl Jennifer Cardy was discovered in the water by two duck hunters.

Scottish lorry driver Robert Black was eventually convicted in 2011 of abducting, sexually assaulting and murdering the nine-year-old.