Refugee charity closes due to disorder

The charity said it was concerned about safety following the disorder in places including Stoke-on-Trent where it is based

A centre which supports asylum seekers and refugees has shut for a few days as a result of the disorder across the UK.

Asha North Staffordshire said it made the decision out of concern for the safety of its users, staff and volunteers after violence broke out in towns and cities including Stoke-on-Trent, where it is based.

It apologised for the inconvenience caused and said it would reopen on Monday if it felt safe to do so.

“We are sending our love to those affected by this situation and hope you all stay safe and well,” Asha said in a post on Facebook.

Two men have been charged after 10 were arrested as a result of the disorder in Stoke-on-Trent on Saturday.

It was one of a number of demonstrations that have turned violent across the country in recent days, triggered by the death of three girls in Southport.

Hotels believed to have been housing asylum seekers were targeted as part of the disorder, including the Holiday Inn Express hotel in Tamworth.

The director of public prosecutions has said his teams will consider seeking the extradition of social media influencers allegedly playing a role in the violent disorder from abroad.