During the attack on the couples’ house, windows were smashed, along with those of a car. It’s said to be the second attack against the couple in the space of just this year, with their home also being targeted back in February.

PSNI say they are treating both as hate crimes.

“This is an utterly deplorable incident and our thoughts and sympathies, as well as our support, are with Mr Sikorski and Ms Kilan at what must be an unimaginably difficult time,” said Ms McAllister.

“Everyone who has chosen to make Northern Ireland their home deserves to feel safe, welcomed, and respected wherever they live, free from fear or intimidation. Prejudice and discrimination have absolutely no place in our society, and must be robustly condemned by all across society without question.

“These thugs speak only for themselves and their own ignorance, and do not by any means represent the attitudes of the vast majority of residents in Newtownabbey and the surrounding area.

“The perpetrators are clearly a danger to the community, and we’d urge anyone who may have any information pertaining to the attack to get in touch with police.”