Tensions rising in North as youths clash with police

Petrol bombs have been thrown at police by republican youths in Ardoyne, north Belfast this evening.

It is one of a number of violent incidents to occur around the annual Protestant “July 12th” marches, which are taking place a day late because yesterday was a Sunday.

The first incident took place in Belfast, where about 20 loyalist youths threw bottles and other missiles at police who had confiscated alcohol from them. PSNI officers liaised with Orange Order officials and calm was soon restored.

In Armagh, a suspect device partially ignited, but was made safe by the British Army without any injuries or damage to property. The local police commander, Chief Inspector Ken Mawhinney said it could have ended in tragedy.

The latest clashes, between republican youths and police, happened in Ardoyne this evening. There was concern of more serious violence in the area later tonight.