Fires spark concern for '˜major incident'

Sinn Fein Councillor Dermot Nicholl was speaking after stretches of grass verges along the Coolagh Road in Greysteel were set alight last week.

“I have been contacted by some people around what it looks like people setting fire to hedgerows in the Coolagh Road area,” said Colr. Nicholl.

“If this is the case I would appeal to the people responsible to explain their rationale for this to the residents of that area.

“I want them to explain to residents just what they are trying to achieve by their behaviour other than the pure destruction of the countryside.”

The Sinn Fein councillor said he was worried should the recent dry spell of weather continue, and a fire was started in the area it would spread to nearby trees.

“You could end up with a major incident on your hands,” he said.

“Whoever is behind this needs to stop.

“They may think this is just a bit of fun, but it’s not. It is nothing more than wanton vandalism.”

Colr. Nicholl said there was also a car burnt out and left on the Monnaboy Road.

“We don’t know if any of these incidents are related, but people have been in touch and they are concerned,” said Colr. Nicholl,.

He added: “No one wants this on their doorstep.”