Bradford man admits violent disorder at protest

Liam Ryan has been remanded into custody ahead of sentencing

A Bradford man cried in court as he admitted violent disorder following disturbances in Piccadilly Gardens in Manchester city centre on Saturday.

Liam Ryan, 28, of Thirkleby Royd, Clayton, pleaded guilty at Manchester Magistrates' Court on Wednesday morning after the prosecution said he played an "active role in the disorder".

Prosecutor Laura Peers said Ryan had travelled from West Yorkshire to take part in the demonstrations.

Ryan, who was shaking as he wiped tears away with a tissue, was remanded in custody for sentencing at Manchester Crown Court on 14 August.

Ms Peers said a "large group of far-right protesters" were seen engaging in an "altercation with one black male", which was filmed by members of the group and uploaded on social media.

The prosecutor said the footage showed "a black male being confronted by a large group of white males".

Ms Peers said: "Ryan was seen on the footage aiming a punch towards the male involved."

A number of other men, most from the Manchester area, appeared at the same court to answer charges related to the unrest.

More than 400 arrests have been made and around 100 people have been charged in connection with the disorder across several UK cities.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer said nearly 6,000 public order officers are being mobilised to respond to any disorder in the coming days, with at least 30 potential gatherings planned for today, according to police sources.

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