Loyalist and nationalist youths clash in Belfast

Rival gangs of loyalist and nationalist youths engaged in street clashes near the Markets area of Belfast last night.

The disturbances are believed to have been sparked when loyalists ripped down GAA flags that had been erected in the area by supporters of the local St Malachy's team.

More than 100 youths threw stones, bottles and paint at each other during the subsequent rioting in the Donegall Pass/Lower Ormeau Road area.

PSNI officers also came under attack and five petrol bombs were thrown into Donegall Pass police station, but no injuries were reported after the violence.