History sign vandalised in Killyleagh church ground

History sign vandalised in Killyleagh church ground

26 June 2024

A SIGN explaining the history of an ancient site in Killyleagh has been vandalised within days of it being installed.

A new interpretative panel was installed last month at Killowen church with the incident described by Rowallane councillor Callum Bowsie part of “ongoing vandalism” in the area.

He said it was “regrettable” that his efforts to improve and promote Killowen Church in Killyleagh have resulted in an ancient churchyard being subjected to ongoing vandalism. 

Derogatory graffiti targeting the DUP has also been sprayed in the area.

At the start of the year, Cllr Bowsie revealed he was in the process of researching and creating a new history sign for Killowen church and the historic Mary’s Stile area.

He said a stone plinth where the sign was due to be attached to was targeted with anti-DUP graffiti, with the same message written on a nearby fence post. 

“Unfortunately, this new history panel has now been vandalised within weeks, possibly days, of it being installed and I suspect those responsible are the same people who stole half my election posters in Killyleagh last year,” he continued.

"If people have an issue with me or my party, that's no problem, but there are other ways to express that than vandalising an ancient churchyard.”

Cllr Bowsie said he understood that many feel exasperated and maybe even failed by politics and politicians. 

“Here was a sign that intended to promote Killyleagh's history which was installed at a cost of £2,000 and paid for by the public purse and part of the wider Killyleagh revitalisation scheme which is nearly completed at a cost of £158,000 by the Department for Communities,” he said.

Cllr Bowsie asked what sort of message those responsible for damaging the sign were trying to send, suggesting is it “don't try to improve our community because we don't agree with your politics?’”

Police investigating the recent criminal damage incident have issued an appeal for help.

They are keen to hear from anyone who may have been in the old church grounds between May 23 and June 17.

Anyone who believes they can help is asked to get in touch using the non-emergency 101 number quoting reference 1897 from 17/06/24.

Information can also be provided anonymously using the confidential Crimestoppers number 0800 555111.