Racist graffiti that appeared on a church in North Belfast has been condemned as "vile".
Local councillors have spoken out against racist slogans that were written on the side of Newington Presbyterian Church, in the Tiger's Bay area on Tuesday.
North Belfast Sinn Fein Councillor Conor Maskey said that the graffiti sent a disgusting message and should be widely condemned.
This sentiment was echoed by DUP councillor Dean McCullough who said that it was "reprehensible".
Local residents have been praised for their quick response to the racist vandalism, quickly having it removed.
Councillor Maskey said: "This was a vile act of vandalism sending the most disgusting of messages to our black citizens.
"The global Black Lives Matter has put into stark contrast the institutional racism still being experienced and still needing addressed.
"This dangerously racist graffiti doesn't reflect the vast majority of the people of North Belfast.
"I applaud the swift action of locals to get this graffiti removed.
"All political and community reps should be out condemning and working to stop this."
Councillor McCullough took to social media to say: "The appearance of this racist graffiti is reprehensible and I know I speak for all my DUP colleagues in North Belfast in condemning it outright.
"For it to be sprayed on a church further shows the blatant disregard those behind it have for anywhere or anyone.
"They would do well to learn from this place of worship that is open to all, regardless of colour, or anything else for that matter."
