A Limavady couple whose home and property have been attacked on a number of occasions in recent weeks believe they were targeted by nationalists because they are in a mixed marriage.
Since moving to the Coolessan estate almost two months ago, windows have been broken at their home and cars on four occasions.
Damage estimated at £500 was caused to a second car while the first vehicle was being repaired. The back door of the house has also been damaged.
A bush in the front garden of the house was also set on fire – an incident witnessed by one of the couple's two young children.
According to Dessie Lowry, former SDLP chairman of Limavady Borough Council, the couple initially believed the incidents to be vandalism.
Mr Lowry says they now believe the attacks to be sectarian after an incident earlier this week when anti-Protestant graffiti was painted on the husband's car. Mr Lowry said he agreed with the couple, adding he had "no doubt" that the attacks were sectarian.
A police spokesman said detectives were investigating damage to cars in the Coolessan estate, but said that no motive had yet been established.
Although a mixed estate, the majority of residents of Coolessan are nationalists.
Mr Lowry blamed a small group of nationalist thugs for targeting the family, adding that he did not want the estate to mirror activity in other housing estates in Limavady where Catholic families were attacked by loyalists.
"I am absolutely disgusted and determined that this type of behaviour is not tolerated in any way," he said.
"Coolessan is a mixed estate and I know these actions will be repugnant to the overwhelming majority of residents.
"This sectarian motivated crime appears to be an isolated incident. I would urge the community to do all in their power to stop these attacks and allow this family to enjoy their basic human rights," he added.
Mr Lowry also appealed to anyone with information on the attacks to contact the police.
