Daily Mirror (Northern Ireland)
Club tells of dismay at fans’ flag on bonfire
Sectarian hatred is condemned
A FOOTBALL club yesterday hit out after its flag was placed on top of an anti-internment bonfire.
Portadown’s Hanover FC described the incident in Co Armagh as a “serious hate crime” and called on nationalist councillors to proactively encourage its return.
In a separate incident a sign mocking victims campaigner Willie Frazer was placed on a bonfire in Newry, Co Down.
Police said they were aware of the reports and were investigating offences and actively gathering evidence.
In a statement Hanover FC said: “We thank all those who have contacted us for their support as always, whilst also encouraging those nationalist councillors with contacts in the area to proactively encourage the return of the flag of a local football club that works tirelessly within the community to build cross community relationships.”
It was reported last night a 28-year-old man has been arrested in relation to this incident for breach of bail and offences under the Telecommunications Act. He has been remanded in custody.
Meanwhile, Mr Frazer spoke out after pictures emerged of a sign glorifying the murder of his father on an anti-internment bonfire. His father Bertie, a part-time UDR soldier, was killed in an IRA gun attack in Ballymoyer in 1975.
The sign read: “Willie Frazer have you found your daddy yet?”
Mr Frazer said: “These people cling on to the glorification of murder. It’s more to be pitied.”
Sinn Fein MP Mickey Brady said: “Such actions must be eradicated.”