POLICE IN NORTHERN Ireland are investigating after two churches in Newtownhamilton, Co Armagh, were broken into on Christmas Day.

Officers said they received reports that sometime between 3pm on Thursday (Christmas Day) and 9am on Friday, entry was gained to both churches in the town.

The churches targeted were St Michael’s Church on Dundalk Street and the Second Newtownhamilton Presbyterian Church on Castleblayney Street.

Damage was caused to both buildings, and a number of items were taken, including electronic speakers and a wall clock.

PSNI Sergeant Nelson said police are appealing to anyone who may have noticed suspicious activity in the area during the timeframe in question.

“We are appealing to anyone that may have noted suspicious activity around places of worship, particularly in the Dundalk Street and Castleblayney Street areas of Newtownhamilton,” he said.

Police have also increased patrols in the area following the incidents.

They are also asking anyone with CCTV, dashcam or other footage that could assist the investigation to come forward.

St Michael’s Chapel will be closed during the day for the next few days following the break-in, though mass times will continue as normal.