Mr Shannon said,
“This is appalling. A disgraceful and criminal act that is repudiated by 99.9% of our community. Newtownards rejects this attack on the rule of law and justice - the very essence of what makes us British.
I have been impressed by Judge Hamill’s firm and fair approach. I know that he will not allow this to intimidate him.
The duty and responsibility of our community has never been clearer everyone must work with the PSNI to see these thugs inside the court instead of cowardly spray painting the outside of it.”