Youths urged not to throw snowballs at passing cars after such incident saw 'window smashed'

Children in Derry have been urged not to throw snowballs at passing cars.

There have been reports throughout the city that snowballs have been thrown in the direction of motorists as they attempt to drive in the icy conditions.

Schools across the county announced their closure due to the severe weather conditions, as many would find it difficult to attend.

However, there have been calls for children not to take their day off school to cause unnecessary hassle for motorists.

SDLP MLA Mark Durkan took to social media to remind people of the dangers that could be caused by taking such actions.

He said: “It's treacherous enough driving in these conditions without having to run the gauntlet of snowball-throwing youths.

“Please have a word with your children and teenagers and educate them about the risks of such behaviour. 

“I know many young ones will think it's just a bit of harmless fun and a chance to get a good cheevie (plenty of us probably cringe at the fact we did similar stupid stuff ourselves when we knew no better), but the consequences could be fatal.”

This comment came shortly after a post made to Facebook by Pharmabeaut by H. Sweeny Chemist.

They took to social media after one of their drivers delivering medicines to patients had their window smashed by a snowball.

They said: “No one loves snow more than me, but what I don’t like is young ones targeting vehicles with snowballs. 

“One of our drivers, who is risking himself enough trying to deliver medicines to patients on a day like today, just had his window smashed with an ice ball.”