Paint damage to Derry monument a hate crime, say police

Police are treating damage to a monument in Derry as a sectarian hate crime after paint was thrown on it.

Damage to Walker’s Plinth is believed to have happened some time overnight on Monday.

A PSNI spokesperson said the incident was reported around 11.30am on Monday and is being investigated as a sectarian hate crime.

The plinth has long been a contentious symbol in the city – the pillar of the monument was blown up by an IRA bomb in 1973.

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The original column stood at 96 feet tall and was topped with a statue of Reverend George Walker, who was a leading figure during the Siege of Derry, facing across the Bogside area of the city.

DUP MLA Gary Middleton said he was “disgusted” that the plinth had “once again been targeted”.

“The intolerance shown by those behind this attack is in stark contrast to the work carried out by the Siege Museum and the many visitors who come here to view the plinth and the city walls,” he said.

The neighbouring Siege Museum added: “We’ve over 100 kids coming to the museum this week, the highlight for many is the tour of the walls and the climb to the top of Walker’s Plinth.

“Beautiful weather for it as well.

“Unfortunately this is what awaits them.”