Sectarian rioting in Lurgan

Sectarian rioting flared between rival gangs of youths on the outskirts of Lurgan, Co Armagh, last night.

Sectarian rioting flared between rival gangs of youths on the outskirts of Lurgan, Co Armagh, last night.

An RUC spokesman said the gangs, numbering roughly 100 on either side, fired missiles at each other on the Tandragee Road at about 8 p.m. When police officers moved in to close off the road and separate the crowds, they came under petrol bomb attacks from both sides.

One plastic baton round was fired in response, but the area was reported quiet by 10.30 p.m. and there were no injuries.

The Tandragee Road separates the mainly Catholic Taghneven and predominantly Protestant Mourneview estates in the town.