Petrol bomb attack was ‘islamaphobic’

It is understood the family whose home was attacked have said that the incident was motivated by anti-islamic feelings.

One local man said: “The family have been here for a good while, they’re very quiet and cause no bother to anyone.”

Sinn Féin MLA Daithi McKay has said all hate crimes are wrong and communities must stand up against those intent on carrying them out.

Mr McKay said: “It is only good fortune that we are not dealing with a death or serious injury following a petrol bomb attack on a house in Ballymena.

“The occupants of the house were able to extinguish the fire before it took hold and therefore prevent more serious damage.

“Attacks against people whether it is on religious, race or sexual orientation are wrong and must stop.

“These attacks will only stop when the entire community stand up to protect their neighbours and I am calling on anyone with information on this attack to bring it forward to the PSNI.”