By Lesley Walsh
YOUNG troublemakers who come to Bangor to cause fear and unrest in the good weather must bear the full consequences of their actions, local politicians have warned.
The stark message follows weekend disturbances when gangs of youths brawled near the city centre, landing four young people in hospital with minor injuries.
As the sun shone over the city and temperatures rose, trouble broke out at Quay Street just after 7pm on Saturday evening, and spilled into High Street, with large numbers of youths also congregating at the train station at Abbey Street.
North Down MP Alex Easton said that with the trouble flaring once again with the onset of spring weather, it was time to consider re-opening Bangor’s PSNI station – which overlooks the Translink hub – to the public.
The disturbances come on the heels of local disquiet following the violent attack on K9 rescue volunteer Ryan Gray and his dog Max on March 27, and the vandalism of local businesses by young people.
The events have also stirred up fears of future similar incidents of disorderly behaviour, as underage drinkers join the regular influx of visitors of all ages who flock to the seaside to enjoy the warming weather, many arriving by train.
The latest incident has prompted Bangor Chamber of Commerce to invite local police chiefs to brief the business community on measures to address the unrest, during a meeting at The Old Market House on May 7.
Police in Bangor issued a statement to offer reassurance following the trouble in the city centre.
Chief Inspector Hutchinson said dedicated resources were on hand throughout Saturday to deal with any antisocial behaviour in the area.
“There was a large number of young people causing a disturbance in Bangor during the course of Saturday evening and we received a report at around 7.05pm of a crowd of youths fighting in the Quay Street area, before running off in the direction of High Street.
“We also received reports of large groups of youths congregating at the train station,” he said. “Four young people were injured and subsequently went on to hospital to receive treatment as a result of the evening’s events.
The senior PSNI officer continued: “We would like to reassure the local community that we take all reports of antisocial behaviour seriously
and that we recognise the wider impact this kind of behaviour can have. We’re committed to addressing these issues and supporting those affected.”
Police maintained a high presence in the city on Sunday following the trouble.
“Our patrols across Bangor and the wider area will also continue, along with our collaborative work alongside partner agencies and local representatives to help resolve any issues,” said Mr Hutchinson.
With enquiries continuing, Mr Hutchinson urged anyone with any information to contact police on the 101 number, quoting reference 1237 of 25/04/26.
“You can also submit a report or information online using the non-emergency reporting form via www.psni.police.uk/ makeareport, or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or online at www.crimestoppers-uk.org/.”
