The principal of a north Belfast school which was daubed with sectarian graffiti last week has said he is “saddened” by the attack.

Kieran McGarry arrived at St Mary’s Star of the Sea on the Shore Road on Wednesday, March 18, to discover the school’s walls, windows and tarmac had been painted with sectarian slurs.

Speaking to The CT about the incident, Principal McGarry said: “When we arrived at the school, graffiti had been daubed in the school and tarmac.

“I am saddened and shocked. We have had nothing like that (a sectarian attack) for a few years now.

“We have good relations with the local community so it is disappointing to see this happen.

“In the school we promote respect, tolerance and to not to cause offense. We have great relations with the local community and are involved in a number of cross-community programmes,” he added.

A spokesman for the PSNI said: “Police are appealing for information about an incident of criminal damage in north Belfast.

“At 8.30am on Wednesday, March 18, it was reported that a number of sectarian slogans had been daubed on a school at Shore Road.

“Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity or has information should contact police by calling 0845 600 8000. Alternatively information about crime can be passed anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity by contacting 0845 600 8000.”