Man Arrested Over IRA Bomb Plaque Theft

A man has been arrested over the theft of a memorial plaque commemorating the lives of two boys killed in an IRA bombing almost 20 years ago.

Three-year-old Johnathan Ball and 12-year-old Tim Parry died when two bombs placed in litter bins exploded in Warrington. Another 54 people were injured in the attack in March 1993.

A metal plaque in memory of the two boys was taken from a wall, just yards from the main River of Life memorial which was unveiled by the Duchess of Kent.

It is thought to have been stolen between April 20 and May 5.

On Saturday, officers arrested a 57-year-old man from the Penketh area of Warrington on suspicion of theft.

He was granted police bail until July 5 pending further investigation.

At the time of the man's arrest, the memorial plaque was recovered in its original state, Cheshire Police added.

But detectives have also released CCTV of further suspects they wish to trace.

Richard Strachan, Chief Superintendent for Warrington and Halton, said: "This investigation is progressing successfully.

"I would like to thank the communities of Warrington for their assistance, and acknowledge the continued support from Warrington Borough Council, particularly the work of town centre CCTV operatives in advancing our enquiries.

"I would urge anyone who recognises the men captured in these CCTV images to contact us as soon as possible."

:: Anyone with any information is asked to contact Warrington CID on 101 .