Homes evacuated in security alert close to Bogside bonfire

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Tuesday, 16 August 2016 09:08

Several homes were evacuated in the early hours of this morning due to a security alert linked to a controversial bonfire in Derry - Londonderry.

A number of residents on Charlotte Street in the city's Bogside area were forced to leaved their homes late last night due to a security alert in the area.

It's understood the alert was triggered after a device was thrown at the Lecky Road flyover.

The alert ended shortly after 3am and residents were allowed to return to their homes.

Around 1,000 people gathered at the bonfire which partially blocked both the Lecky and Brandywell roads, leading to traffic disruption in the area.

Standing at around 20ft tall the structure was largely made up of wooden palettes and tyres.

Discussions to have the bonfire moved to a safer location broke down yesterday.

Election posters including those belonging to Sinn Féin, DUP and Independent Unionist candidates were burnt on the fire alongside a number of Union flags.