Fires engulfed a number of businesses in the city

Dissident republicans were blamed for attacks which destroyed two stores and damaged five others on Wednesday.

It is understood an unexploded device was found on Thursday in the Land of Leather store in Damolly Retail Park.

Staff were also moved out of the city courthouse after a suspect package was found. It was later declared a hoax.

Firebombs destroyed JJB Sports and CarpetRight stores in Newry whilst a TK Maxx store and MFI outlet were among those badly damaged.

Business owners in the city spent much of Thursday assessing the damage caused to their workplaces. In total, the damage has been put at hundreds of thousands of pounds.

Peter Murray, former president of Newry Chamber of Commerce, said it could take up to nine months to get the businesses reinstated.

"The mood is very much one of determination and resilience... that the disruption suffered yesterday is but a blip on the development of Newry," he said.

"Everyone is really putting their shoulder to the wheel with a view to move forward."

He said staff from the major stores were being relocated.

The council has organised a special meeting involving business leaders and politicians, following the attacks.

Police described the attacks as "devastating" and warned there could be unexploded devices at other premises.