The PSNI is investigating the incidents as hate crimes, which occurred on Sunday evening (2 Aug) and involved targeted vandalism of the homes, with windows being smashed at both properties and children among the family members injured at Church Green. Additionally, a vehicle was broken into at Church Road and money stolen from inside.

Andrew Muir MLA has said: “I am shocked and disgusted by these hateful and racist attacks.  To see children in particular injured in this way is repugnant, and I urge anyone with any information to contact the PSNI without delay. Holywood is a shared and inclusive place, and this kind of violence and intimidation does not reflect the views of the vast majority of people in the town who are absolutely appalled to see this occur.”

Alderman Martin McRandal added: “It is disgusting to see a family subjected to racially-motivated criminal activity in our community and I want to be clear that those involved do not represent the open and welcoming Holywood that I know and love. It is important that there are consequences for the perpetrators and would urge people to come forward and assist the PSNI with their investigations in any way they can.”