Red Hand Defenders admit playgroup attack

The Loyalist paramilitary group styling itself 'The Red Hand Defenders' has claimed responsibility for the attack today on a children's playgroup in north Belfast.

No-one was physically injured in the attack although several young people and playgroup workers were treated in hospital for the shock.

The Red Hand Defenders have links with the Ulster Defence Association.

A statement said the group's campaign of violence will escalate and they consider all nationalists as 'hostile and legitimate targets'.

The shooting has been met with cross community condemnation.