Romanians flee homes after racist attacks in Belfast

Belfast (Ireland), June 17 (ANI): Over 100 Romanians, including a five-day-old baby, have fled their homes in Belfast after being subjected to racist attacks.

The 20-odd families have been given a place to stay in City Church, reports Sky News.

The 20 families left their homes in the Lisburn Road area of the city to seek safety.

Four days of racist incidents in the area culminated in an attack by youths, who hurled bottles and made Nazi salutes, on an anti-racism rally.

The families initially sought refuge in a single house, where they thought they would be safer in numbers.

But a local church stepped in to offer them the use of the church hall for as long as they need it.

Pastor Malcolm Morgan said: "It is a sad indictment of our society, but hopefully we can show them a different side to Northern Ireland and a caring side to Northern Ireland."

Police patrols have been increased in an attempt to end the attacks, which have been festering since trouble at a football match been Northern Ireland and Poland in March. (ANI)