A mother has appealed for youths to stop targeting her vulnerable adult son after a series of incidents in Armagh city centre.

The man, who is in his late 30s and has a learning difficulty, was subjected to verbal abuse and threats from a group of young people on two consecutive nights.

His mother said her son has been able to go into town independently for 20 years without trouble. She reported the matter to police but was told no action could be taken as her son was not physically injured.

The bar owner of a city centre premises where the abuse began said he saw the gang hurl insults at the man on Monday evening. He stated that when he went outside to protect his friend, one youth shouted threats at him and then spat on his back as he turned to let a customer out.

On Tuesday night, two youths entered the bar around 9.30pm. One offered an apology but soon began shouting abuse again, according to the owner. A group of foreign nationals approached, and the local boys fled.

The owner, who has been in business for over 40 years, said similar incidents involving young teenagers have been occurring across the town for more than a year. He warned that the ongoing behaviour could have fatal consequences.

Police confirmed they received a report of anti-social behaviour at a licensed premises in the Thomas Street area at approximately 9.15pm on Tuesday. Sergeant Hutchings said officers take such reports seriously and have increased patrols. She urged parents to speak to their children about the consequences of anti-social behaviour.

The mother of the victim said her son was frightened by the experience. She called on those responsible to consider how they would feel if a member of their own family was targeted.

No arrests have been reported.