Vandals destroy kid's work

Vandals ripped children's art work and pulled down decorations and equipment used by a local kids club at a marquee in Donacloney on Thursday evening.
Donaghcloney is a small village, just off the main road between Lurgan and Banbridge, on the River Lagan. Picture: Diane Magill (Village Lives)Donaghcloney is a small village, just off the main road between Lurgan and Banbridge, on the River Lagan. Picture: Diane Magill (Village Lives)
Donaghcloney is a small village, just off the main road between Lurgan and Banbridge, on the River Lagan. Picture: Diane Magill (Village Lives)

MLA Carla Lockhart and Councillor Mark Baxter condemned the attack at the club run by Donaghcloney Rural Needs Development Group, at the main street.

The Upper Bann MLA who will be meeting with the police said, “Once again we have seen a good community project disrupted by people who have nothing better to offer.

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“If these individuals put as much effort into being creative and putting something back into the area they would benefit far more.

“This type of vandalism serves no purpose.

“I am pleased that no entry was gained to the hall but that’s small consolation to the children and organisers of the club.

“I would appeal to anyone with any information to ring the police on 101 number using reference number 863 05/08/16 or ring Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.”

Mr Baxter said, “The Donacloney Association run a summer scheme here every year and is a vital and well attended programme for the young people of this rural community. Although the vandals didn’t get into the building they went into the gazebo and destroyed the artwork and decimated some of the play equipment.

“The local community are repulsed by what has happened.

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“I’ve spoken to the arts co-ordinator there and while in terms of monetary value it won’t amount to much it’s the fact that people would do this and jeopardise future initiatives and programmes for the youth.”

Ann Furphy, a parent whose child attended the scheme posted on Facebook, “That is really awful news. My five-year-old was at the summer scheme for the past two weeks an had a complete ball making things and meeting friends.

“The leaders and children will be disappointed. The summer scheme is a credit to all involved. Hopefully the heartless thugs will be caught.”

Jennifer Fisher posted on Facebook, “I really don’t know what enjoyment anyone gets out of this I worry if this is what the future holds.”

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