Mixed family targeted by loyalist bombers

A family escaped injury today after blast bombs exploded in their home during a sectarian attack in strife-torn north Belfast. Loyalists are being blamed for hurling two devices through the window of the house on the Whitewell Road.

A couple and their three children were at home when the bombs detonated in the living room, causing extensive damage. Although they managed to get out without being harmed, a police spokesman said the attack could have caused serious injury or death.

The father of the family, Martin Finlay, said he was targeted because he married a Protestant woman. He also revealed that he has suffered three previous petrol bomb attacks and that a device was once planted under his car.

It is understood loyalists are being sought for the attack on the family, who lived in a nationalist area.

Two masked men were seen running from the scene towards the Graymount area.

The attack follows claims that the Ulster Defence Association, the largest loyalist paramilitary organisation in the province, has pledged to ease tensions in another nearby flashpoint area.

A statement issued by the UDA-affiliated Ulster Political Research Group said the terror organisation had given assurances it would work towards calming the tinder-box atmosphere in the city.

Parts of north Belfast have been ravaged in recent days by the worst rioting this year.