Criminal damage to Larne facility '˜big loss' to community

Ann Marshall spoke out after discovering that the polytunnel in the Bryan Street area, which is used by the residents’ assocation and senior citizens to cultivate fruit and vegetables, had been damaged.

“This is the second time that the polytunnel has been vandalised,” Ann told the Times.

“It happened a year ago and on that occasion it cost £960 to repair, and now it has happened again.

“This is a big loss to the community.”

While those responsible for the damage did not touch the produce inside, photos show several large tears in the polytunnel fabric which has left the remaining plants exposed to the elements.

A police spokesperson said that they were appealing for information over the incident.

“It is reported that sometime between Sunday 20 November and 9.15am on Monday 21 November items were cut,” he said.

“Anyone with any information about this incident is asked to contact Larne Police Station on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 231 of 21/11/16.

“Or if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details, they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”