Riots break out in UK town after alleged sexual assault

Police have appealed for calm

The Belfast Telegraph reports that at least four houses were set on fire, and masked youths attacked several houses with missiles.

Authorities blocked off Clonavon Terrace as they tried to tackle the unrest.

The Police Service of Northern Ireland issued a statement confirming that they had attended the scene.

They confirmed that officers had missiles thrown at them, and "damage had reported to a number of properties".

Chief Superintendent Sue Steen urged people to remain calm.

“We are urging everyone to remain calm and to act responsibly. Violence and disorder will only place people at greater risk," she said.

"Our priority is to keep the community safe, and I would appeal to everyone to work with us to bring calm to the area as quickly as possible."

The outbreak of disorder came after two 14-year-old boys appeared at Coleraine Magistrates’ Court were charged with attempted rape.

People gathered in Ballymena hours after the court appearance, and walked peacefully along Larne Street and then Queen Street.