AN 18-year-old man has been shot in both ankles in a paramilitary style attack in west Belfast.

It happened in the Pembroke Loop Road area on Saturday night at around 8:10pm.

He was taken to hospital for treatment to his injuries.

Dissident republican have been blamed for carrying out the attack.

SDLP councillor Brian Heading said it was “utter madness” that an attack would be carried out two days before Christmas.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or who has any information is asked to contact officers at Musgrave on 101 quoting reference number 1568 23/12/17 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800555111