Police have escaped injury after petrol bombs were thrown into Crossmaglen PSNI station in south Armagh.

It is believed that about 20 of the devices were thrown during the attack, which happened at about 0030 GMT on Saturday.

A small fire was started in the grounds of the station, but it was quickly put out and caused little damage.

Earlier, police officers on patrol in the village reported hearing automatic gunfire.

It is believed the shots were fired somewhere to the north of the village.

The attack on the police station was condemned by Sinn Fein MP Conor Murphy.

"I would appeal to those involved in this type of pointless activity to wise up and to reflect upon the damage that this type of activity does to the reputation of the local community here in Crossmaglen," he said.

Police have appealed for anyone with information to contact them.