Carrick-a-rede rope bridge closed due to vandalism

By Maria McCann

Ropes at the Carrick-a-rede bridge near Ballintoy have been cut by vandals.

Hand and supporting ropes are thought to have been damaged at some point between 6.30pm on Tuesday night and 9.30am on Wednesday.

Structural engineers are now working to assess the damage.

It's understood the popular tourist attraction will remain closed for the foreseeable future.

The bridge attracts more than 250,000 visitors each year.

Inspector Colin Reeves said: “Sometime between 6.30pm on Tuesday 23 May and 9.30am on Wednesday 24 May, a padlock on the gate which leads to the bridge was removed. The hand rope on the right hand side of the rope bridge and supporting ropes at the side of the bridge were partially cut.

“We are appealing to anyone who may have witnessed anyone acting suspiciously in the area to contact police in Coleraine on the non-emergency number 101, quoting reference number 317 24/05/17. Or, alternatively if someone would prefer to provide information without giving their details they can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers and speak to them anonymously on 0800 555 111.”