The Alliance Councillor, who originally proposed the statue of the anti-slave campaigner, said he was disgusted after a plaque containing Irish was damaged.

“It is disgusting to see this act of vandalism to this statue,” said Councillor Long.

“Mary Ann McCracken represents everything that is good about the shared history of our city. I was delighted when my proposal for the statue was backed by all parties four years ago, as she speaks to the ideals we all should live up to.

“Statues such as those of Mary Ann showcase the new, diverse Belfast by looking back to those who took stands and laid the foundations for the freedoms we enjoy today. It makes me despair how anyone could damage a memorial dedicated to someone held in such high regard by so many people.

“I appeal to anyone who has information on this incident to contact police with it immediately.”