Polish 'forced to leave homes' after attacks

More than 40 Polish people have been forced to flee their homes after the violence linked to their national team's match against Northern Ireland, it was claimed today.

Some have left their homes after attacks or threats while others have left the North completely.

Four Poles appeared in court last Friday and pleaded guilty to disorderly behaviour.

Only one had an address in Belfast.

The charges arose from running battles between Polish football supporters and Northern Ireland fans the previous weekend.

Since then, there have been a series of retaliatory attacks on the homes of Polish workers in south and east Belfast.

The Polish Association says people are fearful and some have sought emergency accommodation while others, at least five, have left the country.

The association has condemned the violence of their co-nationals and the violent retaliation against people who took no part in it.