A homecoming event to mark the release of Hyde Park bombing suspect John Downey in county Donegal later this evening has been cancelled.

His trial collapsed this week, after it emerged he'd been given assurances he was immune from prosecution.

Around 500 people were expected to attend the homecoming event, which was organised to take place in Kilmacrenan later, to allow Mr. Downey to thank those who supported him while he his imprisoned.

However, the Sinn Féin member says he decided to cancel this evening's get together. In a statement, Mr Downey says he would 'never try to insult anyone who is bereaved and that he will not allow the event to be turned into a media circus'.