Youths are chased off after attack

Indeed, according to a local councillor much more damage could have been done if not for their vigilance.

Last Sunday night around 10 young people thought to be aged between 10-18 were acting suspiciously in the grounds at Fort Hill Nursery and Primary School.

Some damage was caused to a greenhouse and wire fencing.

Two men who live nearby heard the youths in the school grounds and went to investigate. On seeing the men the youths ran off in the direction of the Lagan Towpath.

Councillor Jenny Palmer said: “As a member of the board of governors at Fort Hill I know the dedication and care given from the teaching staff, staff, parents and children to set the highest standards in everything they do.

“I want to pay tribute to the parents of some of the children who challenged those young thugs who vandalised the school. They are the voice of the community that have pride in their school and as a result of their interventions perhaps saved the school from further damage. Well done.”

Mrs Palmer said that walkers on the Lagan towpath on the same evening had told her that they felt threatened by a large group of youths thought to have been the young people in the school grounds.

Principal of the school Mr Clive Anderson said: “Fort Hill’s school grounds have always been an important resource for our children’s learning. However, the group of children caught on our CCTV cameras who were in the grounds caused minimal damage to wire fencing and our greenhouse.

“I would very much like to commend the vigilance of quick acting parents and a very supportive local community.”

A spokesperson for police commented: “Police received a report of persons in the grounds of Fort Hill Primary School on 9.50pm on July 28.

“The report stated damage may have been caused to property.

“Officers responding carried out a search of the area, however, the persons had made off and no damage was noted.

“Follow up enquiries will be carried out.”