Breaking news: Paint attack on Ballydougan Orange Hall

In a deliberate attack, paint was splattered over the front door and facade of Ballydougan Orange Hall.

It is believed the incident occurred at some point on Saturday night into Sunday morning.

It’s the first time the Bleary Road property, which has undergone extensive refurbishment in recent years, has ever been targeted.

A total of 18 Orange halls in Northern Ireland and the Republic have been attacked so far this year.

An Orange Order spokesman condemned the Ballydougan paint attack: “The mindless individuals behind this cowardly and underhanded crime have nothing to offer society and should be ashamed of their actions,” he said.

“Ballydougan Orange hall serves as a centre for events and social engagement in the locality; therefore, such moronic activity is an attack on the entire community and serves no purpose.”

The Orange Institution has appealed for anyone with any information to contact the police as a matter of urgency.