Police injured in Belfast disorder

At LEAST ten police officers were injured during disorder linked to a parade in North Belfast last night.

Violence erupted ahead of a republican procession which attracted loyalist protesters.

Missiles including stones and bottles were thrown at police.

Tensions have simmered in recent days over trouble close to a Catholic church not far from today’s parade.

A Police Service of Northern Ireland spokeswoman said: “Missiles were thrown at officers. At least ten officers have been injured, three of whom have been taken to hospital.”

North Belfast was the scene of serious rioting on 12 July when republicans attacked police following a parade through the Ardoyne flashpoint.