A popular south Armagh coffee trailer has been left counting the cost after what has been described as a “disgusting” act of vandalism at Camlough Lake.
The SheBean Coffee Trailer – owned and operated by popular local man Karl Toner – was targeted by vandals who deliberately cut both the electric and water pipes serving the business.
The incident, believed to have taken place on Monday, has sparked anger and disappointment among the many regulars who visit the lakeside spot.
Karl, a well-known figure in the area, has been widely credited with helping to draw people to Camlough Lake through his investment and ongoing presence there. His coffee trailer has become a familiar stopping point for open-water swimmers, walkers, families and visitors enjoying the scenery.
Unfortunately, the closure of the lake due to algae, has saw visitors drop.
A post shared online by Annie Britton-Nice in support of Karl said many regulars were “absolutely gutted” to hear what had happened, describing the attack as “shameful and completely unacceptable”.
“Karl is a hard-working local man who has continuously given so much back to his community,” it read. “Through his work and investment around Camlough Lake, he has helped bring people to this beautiful part of South Armagh and has always offered locals and visitors alike a warm welcome.”
“To deliberately damage the livelihood of someone who works hard, creates something positive and contributes so much to his community is shameful and completely unacceptable.”
The damage had temporarily disrupted the trailer’s ability to trade, with repairs needed to restore power and water supplies.
There has been a strong outpouring of support for Karl online, with locals urging him not to be discouraged by what many have called the “mindless actions of a few”.
“Karl, you have the support of your community behind you,” Annie added. “Don’t let the mindless actions of a few take away from everything positive you have created at Camlough Lake.”
Those behind the statement have appealed to anyone who may have witnessed suspicious activity in the area, or who has information that could help identify those responsible, to report it through the appropriate channels.
Hundreds of people have shown their support online.
Aontú representative Roisin Mulgrew posted: “Haven’t people little to do when they are going around damaging people’s livelihoods and property. Karl is very well liked and respected in the area, and I know everyone will be right behind him.”
Another wrote: “Terrible to see this, after this business suffering through the lake closure, but still served the community, disgusting that someone would do that.”
One woman posted: “What a terrible thing to happen to someone who gives so much to the community.”
