100 pigeons die in Larne arson attack

Two lofts in the Brustin Brae Road area of the town were set alight in the early hours of Saturday morning, killing all the birds inside.

The PSNI confirmed that no one was hurt as a result of the incident.

President of Larne and District Homing Pigeon Society, Owen Donnelly has condemned the incident and told the Times he was “disgusted” to hear that so many animals had died in the blaze.

He added: “It is absolutely dreadful that someone would want to do this defenceless birds.

“I have never heard of this sort of thing happening in the Larne area before and it is very rare that such a terrible thing happens at all.

“I can’t think of any reason in the world why someone would do something as cruel as this.

“It is just ridiculous that these birds died so horrifically.”

Mid and East Antrim Councillor Rev Paul Reid also condemned the attack and said: “Whatever the motive behind this incident may have been, there can be absolutely no justification for such a callous and despicable act against innocent animals.

“It is totally and utterly unacceptable and I would urge anyone who has any information about this crime to report it to police.”

PSNI Constable Hargy said he was “concerned that someone would have the capacity to inflict such cruelty and destruction”.

He added: “I would ask that anyone with information on the arson contact police on the non-emergency number 101.

“Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.”