Unrest in Derry ahead of Apprentice Boys parade

Motorists have been warned of attempts to hijack vehicles in Derry after a postal van was set alight.

Masked men hijacked the van and set it on fire in an incident that came as thousands took part in the annual Apprentice Boys parade.

Police described the episode as localised and said the fire was put out and no-one was injured.

The hijacking occurred in Madams Bank Road in the Shantallow area of Derry at around 12.30pm.

Masked men were said to have thrown petrol bombs into the vehicle before fleeing the scene.

Police said: “Reports are coming in of other attempted hijackings in the city - motorists are advised to be vigilant.”

As many as 15,000 are taking part in the march which involves 140 bands.

Tight security is in place for the event.

Dissident republicans are staging protests at the parade.