An Irish cyclist was on a Sunday morning spin when subjected to an assault by drunken men with beer bottles (File photo, bottle not used in this incident)
Irish cyclist targeted in drunken attack
An Irish cyclist from the Newry area had glass bottles thrown at him and into his path from a moving car on a Sunday morning spin.
One of the projectiles hit the cyclist as the occupants of the car cheered and threw more glass out the windows as the car sped off.
Cllr Mickey Larkin of Sinn Féin spoken out after the incident 10 days ago, describing what happened in detail in the local media.
“At about 10am on Sunday as a cyclist was approaching Anduff on the Silverbridge Road a car drew alongside him and a passenger struck the cyclist on the leg with a beer bottle”, Cllr Larkin said.
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“The car then sped off with the occupants cheering and tossing glass bottles onto the road. Although shaken and injured, the cyclist maintained his balance and dignity.
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“This was a reckless criminal assault upon a visitor to the area who was out enjoying an early morning cycle through South Armagh.
“It is obvious that those involved were under the influence of alcohol, and while driving put the lives of this cyclist, and the wider community, at risk.
“Their selfish and dangerous antics could have brought another tragedy to our rural roads. It is unacceptable behaviour and must be condemned.
“Throughout our district hundreds of cyclists take to the roads, especially at weekends.
“It is an increasingly popular sport and pastime which is improving the health of the local population and draws tourists from far and wide to enjoy South Armagh’s majestic scenery.
“Sinn Féin value the contribution made by the cycling fraternity to this district and understand the issues they can face whilst out on the highway.
“Hopefully this assault will not dissuade them from continuing their activities.
“I urge everyone to remain vigilant and make known to the authorities drink-driving and criminal actions like these.”
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