SDLP Derry Councillor Brian Tierney has condemned the “senseless and disgusting vandalism” at the city cemetery where grave ornaments were destroyed.
The wanton vandalism – angels were broken, candles smashed and teddy bears ripped up – was discovered at first light on Monday.
Chair of the Environment and Regeneration Committee on Derry and Strabane District Council, Mr Tierney said:
“I was absolutely appalled to see the scenes of reckless vandalism at the City Cemetery after a night of destruction.
“This is a place where people come to pay solemn and personal respect to loved ones in peace.
“To see it in this state must have been deeply upsetting for those coming to visit family memorials today.
“Graveside ornaments have been smashed and teddy bears ripped apart.
“How would those behind this wanton destruction feel if it was their mother or their grandmother coming to a graveside this morning to find their tributes to friends and family ruined?
“I’ll be working with council officers to ensure that these sites are protected from this callous vandalism.
“And I would encourage anyone with any information about the sick attack to contact the police.”