Man denies violent disorder at migrant hotel protest

A total of 28 people have now been arrested in relation to Epping protests

A man has denied violent disorder after a protest outside a hotel housing asylum seekers in Essex.

Phillip Curson, 52, spoke to confirm his identity and enter a not guilty plea during a brief hearing at Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday.

Multiple demonstrations have been held outside The Bell Hotel in Epping since 13 July after an asylum seeker was charged with allegedly attempting to kiss a 14-year-old girl.

The court heard Mr Curson, of Upminster in east London, is charged with one count of violent disorder on 17 July in Epping, in that he allegedly "used or threatened unlawful violence".

He was granted conditional bail ahead of a case management hearing on 22 September.