Statement by TUV spokesperson Sammy Morrison:
“On 7th August brethren of LOL 113 were dismayed to discover that their hall had been on the receiving end of an unproved sectarian attack. Two windows in the hall, which had only been replaced a few years ago, were shattered resulting not just in damage to the windows but scoring to the newly laid floor inside the hall.
“The damage to the windows resulted in wind being able to enter the hall and consequently a number of the recently replaced ceiling tiles were brought down and others which had yet to be mounted were damaged.
“It is important to underscore the fact that Kilntown has been an important hub for a rural community for well over a century and we have never been on the receiving end of anything like this before.
“The recent work at the hall – repainting, replacing the floor and ongoing work to connect the hall to mains electricity having worked off a generator for many years – is designed to make the hall more welcoming and useful for all members of the community. Sadly, the hatred which motivated this attack means that the work will take a little longer. That said, anyone who thinks this is going to derail our plans underestimates Orangeism.
“We would appeal for anyone with information about the matter to contact Banbridge PSNI quoting crime reference number CC1518 07/08/23.”