A police car has been set on fire by vandals as officers attended a public meeting in County Down.

The officers were invited to the meeting in Mayobridge on Wednesday night to discuss how to combat a rise in anti-social behaviour.

"Fortunately no one was injured in the blaze which could have spread and caused damage to life and property," said area commander Sam Cordner.

The meeting was being held at the village's youth and community centre.

"Once again a few in society, who do not want to progress, have attempted to destroy the stability of the community," continued Mr Cordner.

"I strongly advise them that we will not tolerate their behaviour or be distracted from assisting the majority of the local community.

"I would also thank those people attending the meeting who assisted my officers."

A police spokeswoman said she understood the officers attending the meeting managed to drive the vehicle back to their station.

South Down MP Eddie McGrady said it was the second attack on community facilities linked to policing in a matter of days.

"Just last Friday the Cnocnafeola Centre near Attical was damaged following a meeting of the District Policing Partnership," the SDLP man said.

"The community wants to deal with important issues such as anti-social behaviour and they want to work in partnership with the PSNI.

"They will not be put off by petty acts of political vandalism."





