Video: Petrol bomb causes smoke damage to Protestant mission hall near Tobermore

DUP Councillor Anne Forde today strongly condemned the incident, saying she was disappointed that anyone could stoop so low as to try and burn a place of worship.

A window was smashed in the entrance door and a bottle containing flammable liquid thrown in.

Kilcronaghan Mission Hall was destroyed in a similar attack 15 years and was rebuilt by worshippers’.

SDLP Councillor Martin Kearney also condemned the incident.

“I deplore this wanton act of violence. People should have the right to practice their faith in safety and peace. This is a basic right. I encourage anyone with information to report anything suspicious to the PSNI,” he said.

Ulster Unionist MLA Sandra Overend and Councillor Derek McKinney also hit out at those responsible.

“This is the third time Kilcronaghan mission hall has been attacked in recent years,” said Mrs Overend. “Those who have carried out these attacks are mindless criminals, seemingly intent on destroying a valuable and much loved local community hub.”

Councillor McKinney added: “The mission hall is used for children’s clubs, praise groups, prayer meetings, and community meetings. I can think of no reason why anyone would wish to carry out such a mindless attack.”