By Rosetta Donnelly

r.donnelly@ulsterherald.com

THE wanton destruction carried out by drinking youths in the Gortin hostel is still causing great upset to those who run the facility.

At the end of June the hostel was used without permission by a group of locals partying. This has happened several times in the past and the hostel has always been left in terrible condition.

Those who run the hostel have threatened to name and shame the perpetrators.

A committee member said, "This kind of destructive behaviour is not acceptable. If it happens again the accused locals will suffer the consequences of being named and shamed".

Parents have also been urged to talk to the young people from the village. "Parents should talk to their children and warn them not to be entering the buildings of the community centre unless they have been permitted to do so.

"Anyone in the community who sees anything suspicious happening around the centre are asked to contact Briege on 028816 48346 so we can put an end to this behaviour and live in a peaceful community".

Police confirmed that they did receive a report that damage had been caused to the hostel at Main Street in Gortin weekend of June 23.

Local councillor Sean Clarke condemned the vandalism and said that anyone with information should contact the police. He said "The hostel is a great asset to the village and is well used by visitors".

"What has happened is someone has had too much to drink and decided to go on a wrecking spree.

"I have nothing against people having a good time but they must treat other people's property with respect.

"This was a very regrettable incident and the community should do its utmost to ensure it does not happen again", said the councillor.