Damage to two new-build properties in Antrim is being treated as a sectarian-motivated hate crime.

Four people, dressed in dark clothing, threw objects in the Reford Grove development in the town at about 03:00 BST on Sunday, the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said.

On arrival, police officers noted that two windows had been smashed, and paint damage had been caused to both properties.

One of the houses was occupied at the time, police said.

Insp Parkes said the PSNI had increased “proactive patrols” in the area and the neighbourhood policing team would talk to community representatives “to monitor any impact or concerns”.

“There is no place in our society for such behaviour. We take a zero tolerance approach to those wanting to cause fear, or incite and promote hatred,” Insp Parkes added.

Police have appealed for information.