Police hit out

POLICE condemned a pipe bomb explosion in the town on Tuesday night.

A pipe bomb exploded outside a solicitor's office at the top of North Street around 11.30pm, no warning was given.

Minor damage was caused to the property and no injuries were reported.

It's thought the intended target was the police station, Operations Superintendent Pauline Shields said: "This was a reckless and cowardly attack which was aimed not only at killing police officers but also endangering the lives of any members of the public who would have been around this busy area at this time.

"This attack must be condemned and I am asking each and every member of the local community to work with us to find those responsible."

Minor disruption was caused as police cordoned-off Church Place for a time.

The Celtic Club which was showing the 'Old Firm' game earlier in the evening had closed before the device exploded. And staff from Shankill Parish were surveying the church for damage on Wednesday, although its believed the building escaped harm.

Information about crime can be passed to police on 0845 600 8000 or alternatively contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111.