Sinn Féin condemns attack on former UDR soldier

Sinn Féin tonight condemned an attack on a former Ulster Defence Regiment soldier after a concrete block was thrown through his car window.

The incident happened in the early hours of this morning and Democratic Unionist Party representative Sammy Brush was not in the vehicle, which was parked outside his home in Ballygawley.

An independent republican candidate for Fermanagh and South Tyrone in the last elections, Gerry McGeough, has been charged with attempting to murder Mr Brush in his home town in 1981.

Local MP Michelle Gildernew said: “It is not clear who was responsible for the attack on Cllr Brush’s home last night.

“However I am confident that republicans were in no way involved and that this was not motivated by any sectarian motive.

“I would encourage anyone with any information on this matter to co-operate with the PSNI.”

McGeough, 46 and Vincent McAnespie, 44, of Aghabo Close, Aughnacloy, also face charges of conspiracy to murder and possession of firearms with intent to endanger life.

Police do not believe at this stage that the incident at Mr Brush’s house was linked to supporters of the accused.

A spokesman said: “We are investigating an incident of criminal damage which occurred at Main Street, Ballygawley, at around 2.10am this morning.”