Village Forum condemns racist attack

The words 'Poles Out' was painted three times on the wall and police have issued an appeal for the public to help them catch those responsible.

They want anyone with information to contact them on 0845 600 8000 or Crimestoppers on freephone 0800 555 111.

Meanwhile, at its meeting on Thursday past of the Village Forum, the painting of the racist graffiti outside a restaurant was strongly condemned as an "act carried out by someone who is no friend to Bushmills."

In a statement, the Forum said: "It deeply regrets the hurt and offence it caused and, in particular, that young people who had lived and worked in our community for a number of years and held in high regard and affection by very many people, lost their employment as a consequence.

"To them we extend our sincerest sympathy. This shameful act is a source of deep disappointment to all concerned with the future prosperity of Bushmills and our ability to attract people of such ability and experience.

"Such behaviour is alien in any civilised culture and totally at odds with the objectives of the Village Community Plan recently published by the Village Forum which has representatives from over 18 community based organisations on its forum."