Man to appear in court following 'vicious' assault in Botanic Gardens

By Q Radio News

A 31-year-old man has been arrested in connection with an assault in Belfast's Botanic Gardens. 

A man was taken to hospital following reports of a large fight at around 9.45pm on Friday night.  

The suspect will appear before Belfast Magistrates Court tomorrow accused of occasioning actual bodily harm and possession of an offensive weapon with intent. 

Chief Inspector Kelly Moore previously described the assault as "vicious" and warned those being lured outside by sunny weather to follow the advice from public health partners and the Government about social distancing.

"We would encourage people not to congregate in popular spots as others may have the same idea and social distancing may not be achievable," she added. 

“This weekend we have increased our patrols, particularly around beauty spots, resorts and transport hubs, focusing on the issues of crowds gathering in breach of Regulation 6 of the Health Protection Regulations, alcohol consumption in designated public places and road safety.

“We will continue to engage, explain and encourage people to make the right choices and we will enforce when necessary. Each and every one of us has a personal responsibility to follow the NI Executive regulations and do everything we can to stop the spread of Covid-19.”