Residents disputing the reported version of events, claim the trouble was "sparked" by 20 or more "drunken bandsmen who launched an attack against nationalist's homes after the Steeple Young Defender's bus stopped at Rathenraw."

A Rathenraw resident, who asked not to be named said, "The bandsmen deliberately stopped at Rathenraw and threw bottles at many homes including mine. Loyalist attacks have become "normal" for Catholics living in Antrim especially in the lead up months to the 12th. But she said, last year during the 12th period, there were no loyalist attacks at Rathenraw at all and I would put this down to the presence of International Observers. Who she said, according to reports in the local press, would once again be present in Antrim Town this year, but they are not."

Rathenraw Community Association Chairman, Paddy Murray said, " Windows on the bandsmen's bus were smashed by youths living in this community. This incident happened after the Loyalists attacked homes in the area and most definitely not as they were driving by Rathenraw on their way home, as reported in the press."

Murray said, "residents are now asking for a meeting with all political leaders in Antrim to discuss a long series of false reporting and a long time lack of consultation with this community by all political parties especially when press statements are being issued and he said, the other occasions when no press statement released when residents believe one is due, regarding attacks against the Rathenraw community and its members."