Concern over increase in thefts leading up to Christmas period

One recent incident was the theft of a handbag from a car parked in a rural church car park at the weekend.

The owner of the car was there to collect her child on Saturday, who as a member of the Ballycarrickmaddy Primary School Choir was singing at a Senior Citizens Dinner.

Speaking about the incident, Alderman William Leathem said: “It is very sad to hear of people losing their property to thieves at any time but it is beyond belief that an opportune thief stole from a car in a church car park.

“The lady concerned was being a kind, considerate parent and supporting her child who had willingly given up time on a Saturday afternoon to sing to a group of senior citizens. To have a handbag with address details, bank cards etc stolen in the run up to the festive period is very stressful and my thoughts are with this family as I understand the young child was also very upset by the incident.”

“I would encourage everyone to be vigilant as Christmas approaches,” he added.