The couple were attacked in the early hours of this morning (15 May) in Downpatrick. The attacker covered the couple in petrol and attempted to set them on fire. The male victim was also stabbed in the face.

Mr McMurray said: “I am shocked to hear about this horrific attack. My thoughts are with the victims of the attack and their families. I wish them a full and speedy recovery.

“This alarming incident has left the local residents and wider community in shock. The individual responsible must be brought to justice.

“I urge anyone with information about the incident to contact the PSNI immediately by calling 101."