Graffiti with swastikas and banners with the image of the attack on Mr Ogilvie have been displayed in the town in recent days.

“The brutal attack on Stephen Ogilvie on Monday was horrific and has been condemned by those right across the community. Anyone who witnessed it will not forget those terrifying scenes,” said Mr Mathison.

“However, his family have clearly said they do not want this terrible tragedy to be used to divide people or fuel hostility. Those behind racist graffiti or banners showing the attack on Mr Ogilvie – placed where children may see and be traumatised by it – are going directly against his family’s wishes.

“Newtownards is a diverse and welcoming place. Racists, neo-Nazis and those intent on stirring up hatred and division do not represent the vast majority of people here. We have no tolerance for those who seek to divide, to weaponise fear or to spout their racist views, and we must all face it down.

“These banners need to come down immediately, before they traumatise anyone else. I appeal to anyone with information on those who sprayed this graffiti or placed the banners to give it to police immediately.”