Tyrone community 'devastated' after arson attack

Extensive damage was caused to the interior of Castlebay Community Centre

SDLP Councillor Malachy Quinn strongly condemned the attack on Castlebay Community Centre at Brocagh, near Coalisland.

"There was heavy damage down to the bar upstairs while the bottom stairs lounge was gutted. There was also some money and goods stolen from the premises," the Torrent councillor said.

"This is not just an attack on a building but an attack on the entire community here in Brocagh.

The bar area was badly damaged in the arson attack

"I have spoken to the family who recently took over the bar and they are devastated by the damage done here having just recently spent money doing the place up.

"This centre hosts many events during the weeks for the local community which will now have to be put on hold because of this damage.

"This week alone there was to be a crafts fair with money going to cancer research which will now have to be cancelled, along with local community groups having to re-locate or cancel their meetings and birthday parties that have been booked into the centre have to be cancelled."

He continued, “This community centre along with the GAA club the centre of community life here in Brocagh and those who have attacked it are disgusting and have nothing to offer. I urge anyone with any information to contact the PSNI immediately."