**Violent Protester Jailed for Two Years After Hotel Clash**

A man has been sentenced to two years in prison following a violent demonstration outside a hotel housing asylum seekers. Martin Peagram, 33, pleaded guilty to violent disorder at Chelmsford Crown Court after the protest at the Bell Hotel in Epping on 17 July.

The protest began peacefully but quickly escalated into violence, with Essex Police reporting “scattered incidents of violence” directed at officers and property. The unrest was sparked by an incident involving an asylum seeker who was charged with allegedly attempting to kiss a 14-year-old girl, leading to multiple demonstrations outside the hotel.

Essex Police had previously sought to identify two individuals in connection with the protest before charging Peagram and another man. During the demonstration, eight police officers sustained injuries, and several police vehicles were damaged as missiles were thrown by some protesters. The police noted that a small group used the demonstration as a cover for violent actions and criminal damage.

The judge highlighted Peagram's actions during the protest, stating that he kicked a police carrier, aimed kicks at officers, and threw a can at police. As a result, he was sentenced to two years and two months in prison. The protests at the Bell Hotel have continued throughout August, with further escalations of violence reported on 13, 17, 20, and 24 July, involving hundreds of participants.

This incident reflects ongoing tensions surrounding asylum seekers in the area, with protests continuing to draw attention and concern from local authorities and law enforcement.