A MAN HAS appeared in court charged with the murder of Stephen Brannigan and the attempted murder of a priest in Downpatrick.

Hugh Malone, 30, with no fixed address but from the Belfast area, appeared via videolink at Newtownards Magistrates’ Court.

There was no application for bail and he was was remanded in custody until 4 September. 

The body of Mr Brannigan, who was aged 56, was found in a house in Marian Park in Downpatrick on Sunday afternoon.

On the same day, Father John Murray was attacked at St Patrick’s Church in the town.

A mass was held for Father Murray and Mr Brannigan’s family at St Colmcille’s Church in Downpatrick on Tuesday.

Bishop McGuckian said the whole community has been “shaken and upset deeply” by the recent events.

He said he hoped to meet with the Brannigan family in the coming days.

Bishop McGuckian also said that Fr Murray is “increasingly comfortable” and will do well in his recovery in hospital.

In a statement today, Downpatrick parish said Fr Murray continues to improve and that his medical team are happy with his progress.

“Please continue to keep him in your prayers,” added the parish.

The parish added that the support it has received is sincerely appreciated and every correspondence in relation to Fr Murray’s wellbeing “has been seen and are so appreciated”.