Attack on memorial distasteful

Ulster Unionist Councillor, Derek Hussey, has condemned an attack on a memorial site outside Castlederg where two young UDR soldiers were murdered 25 years ago.

Heather Kerrigan and Norman McKinley died in an IRA landmine attack on 14th July 1984. Only last July family and friends had gathered at the site to remember the deaths of Heather and Norman 25 years earlier in what was described as a poignant and dignified tribute. Flowers left at the spot on that occasion were removed the following night by persons unknown.

Commenting on the incident; "During Remembrance Weekend family members had placed small wooden crosses, flowers and a Poppy bouquet at the memorial site, however following their act of remembrance a family member discovered that these small inoffensive tributes had again been re moved over the weekend."

"I was contacted by distraught and angry family members to report what had taken place. I know that there are many others in the community who are utterly appalled at this blatantly sectarian desecration of a memorial site."

"Roadside memorials with floral tributes exist throughout our area and are treated with respect. There is no rational reason for this simple tribute to be callously vandalised in this manner.

"Police have been informed of the attack and I would invite anyone with information, in regard to those who would have undertaken such a despicable action, to contact local Police."