Calls have been made to remove election posters which have been placed on an Eleventh night bonfire in Magherafelt.

A number of posters belonging to SDLP’s Martin Kearney, Sinn Féin’s Sean McPeake, Kate McEldowney and Gabhan McFalone as well as independent candidate Michael Kelly were placed on the bonfire at the Beechlands estate.

Mr Kelly who stood unsuccessfully in the Mid Ulster election back in May made the discovery earlier today.

Speaking to the County Derry Post, Michael said: “The loyalist community preach about tolerance, yet this is how they celebrate their culture.

“No doubt speeches at various Twelfth demonstrations across the north will be made advocating tolerance, respect, civil and religious liberties.

“I would ask leading local Orangemen, unionist politicians and community representatives do they think it's acceptable to burn images of those from a different ethnic or religious persuasion on Eleventh night bonfires?  It's a simple yes or no answer,” added Mr Kelly. 

SDLP councillor Martin Kearney has also expressed his disappointment.

He said: “I am very disappointed to hear that election posters have been placed on the bonfire.  Over the past six months I have been trying to work for all within the local community.

“We are trying to work a change for the better, but this is anything but a change for the better,” added Mr Kearney.

Sinn Féin party leader, Sean McPeake added: “So much for ‘culture’ as defined by loyalism. These actions of placing posters on the bonfire shows loyalism for what it truly is, and that is intolerance and hatred for the nationalist and republican communities.

“I would call on the Orange Order to have these posters removed from the bonfire,” added Mr McPeake. 

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