COURT REJECTS BID TO REMOVE PALESTINE FLAG

Angry scenes as rival groups clash with cops after ruling

- BY DAVID YOUNG and CONNOR LYNCH

DISTURBANCES broke out last night as rival groups clashed with police amid protests over the flying of the Palestinian flag over Belfast City Hall.

Around 100 protesters gathered outside the gates of the building just before at 6pm as people tried to enter and leave the Christmas Market.

Some of those gathered were carrying Union Jacks, Ulster and Israeli flags. Separately a group of around 20 youths marched down Donegall Place shouting "Free, Free Palestine!" and clashed with police and protesters.

Police officers were on foot patrol in the area while several PSNI landrovers also arrived on the scene.

It came hours after a judge rejected a legal bid to remove the flag. The flag was raised for one day on Tuesday after councillors voted for the move during a meeting on Monday evening.

The decision prompted a legal challenge by TUV member Ann McClure, with judge Mr Justice Michael Humphreys hearing arguments at Belfast High Court yesterday.

During a protest held outside the court buildings three people were arrested.