Published Friday, 03 February 2012
Two males have appeared in court charged with an arson attack at St John's GAC. (© UTV)
Two males appeared at Belfast Magistrates' Court on Friday charged with setting the St John's GAC alight on 23 July last year.
Around £200,000 of damage was caused to the clubhouse on the Whiterock Road, and cash and contents of the premises were also taken during the incident.
Patrick Parker, 24, of Westrock Gardens, Belfast, and a 17-year-old who cannot be identified because of his age are accused of arson and burglary
A third defendant, Liam Whelan, 19, of Westrock Park, Belfast was charged last year with burglary and handling stolen goods over the raid.
He did not appear along with his co-accused because he has been remanded in custody on other matters.
Both Parker and the teenager spoke only to confirm they understood the allegations against them.
A police constable said he could connect each of them to the alleged offences.
It was indicated to the court that the cases are to proceed on indictment, which could lead to a possible Crown Court trial.
District Judge Fiona Bagnall was told a forensic report is already being compiled, and the police officer referred to blood samples forming part of that analysis.
Parker and the youth were released on continuing bail to reappear in four weeks time.
A date for preliminary inquiry proceedings against Whelan is also expected to be set next month.