Ahoghill band condemns graffiti as volunteers work to keep village looking its best

A community leader has spoken out against graffiti appearing around Ahoghill, saying there is “no place” for vandalism in the village and urging people to show pride in their community instead.

The statement was issued by Ahoghill Loyal Sons of William Flute Band after its chairman, Stephen McCooke, spent Sunday morning (26 July) removing graffiti from locations around the village.

The band said the graffiti included references to proscribed organisations and described it as “unwanted and unnecessary”, warning that it undermines the appearance of the village and the efforts of local volunteers.

A call for community pride

In a strongly worded statement, the band said Ahoghill “does not need to be covered in spray paint or references to proscribed organisations”.

“We are well and truly past that, and there is no place for this kind of vandalism in our community,” the statement said.

It also appealed to anyone wishing to express their loyalty or faith to do so through legitimate community organisations rather than vandalising public spaces.

“If you want to express your loyalty or your faith, please do so by joining a band or a lodge and expressing it in the proper and respectful manner.

“There is no need to have our village looking like a scene from Art Attack. It is unnecessary, unwanted, and only detracts from the appearance of our community.”

Concern ahead of village judging

The band said the timing of the graffiti was particularly disappointing as Ahoghill is due to be judged this week following months of work by volunteers to improve and maintain the village.

“This is especially disappointing at a time when judges will be visiting the village this week to assess the tremendous effort that volunteers put in throughout the year to keep Ahoghill looking its best,” the statement continued.

“It would be a real shame to see all of that hard work spoiled by the actions of a few mindless individuals.”

Council efforts and volunteers recognised

Community and council have been working tirelessly to the local village looking its best.

Local TUV Alderman for Bannside, Stewart McDonald, also praised the work being carried out to ensure Ahoghill is looking its best ahead of the judging visit.

He said Mid and East Antrim Borough Council had stepped up its street-cleaning operation by deploying additional road sweepers in the village before the judges arrive.

Alderman McDonald thanked council staff for their efforts, saying the extra work would help present Ahoghill at its very best and strengthen the village’s chances of securing top honours.

He also paid tribute to the many volunteers who contribute throughout the year, reserving special praise for Ahoghill in Bloom.

“I would like to thank all the volunteers of Ahoghill in Bloom who work tirelessly across the village all year,” he said.

He added that local organisations and churches had also played an important role in enhancing the appearance of the community.

“I would also like to thank the local organisations and local churches who have done some great work in Ahoghill. Thank you, everyone.”

Appeal to respect the community

Concluding its statement, the band urged residents to help protect the appearance of the village and rejected all forms of graffiti.

“We strongly condemn all spray painting and graffiti around the village and encourage everyone to take pride in keeping Ahoghill clean, welcoming and respectful for everyone who lives here and visits.”

The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing work carried out by volunteers to enhance Ahoghill throughout the year.

As judging takes place in the coming days, the band hopes the focus will remain on the community’s efforts to present the village at its best rather than on acts of vandalism.