Arrests at anti-immigration protests outside Horley hotel

Three people have been arrested during an anti-immigration protest at a hotel near Gatwick Airport.

About 200 anti-immigration protesters gathered outside the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel in Horley, which is used to house asylum seekers.

About 30 people attended a counter-demonstration.

Two people were arrested for breach of the peace and one for breaching the conditions of a community protection notice.

All remain in custody, Surrey Police said.

The anti-immigration protesters, many wearing St George’s and Union flags, clashed with Stand Up to Racism protesters.

They sang songs in support of far-right activist Tommy Robinson, whose real name is Stephen Yaxley-Lennon.

Meanwhile, Emma Taylor-Beale, who was protesting for Stand Up to Racism, said she believed those protesting against immigrants were “buying into lies”.

“I’ve got a heart for anyone who has got a need, and our migrant community deserve protection, they deserve dignity, they’ve been through enough,” she said.

The protest comes after Qais Al-Aswad, a 26-year-old resident at the hotel, was found guilty on 20 August at Staines Magistrates’ Court of sexually assaulting a female.

He has been remanded in custody until sentencing in October.

Police said there was a “large police presence” while officers dealt with the protests.

Ch Supt Juliet Parker said: “Our officers were outside the hotel this morning to support the public’s right to lawful protest.

“Unfortunately, while the majority of those present were protesting lawfully, there were some individuals whose behaviour became disruptive, and they were arrested.

“Officers were also present to minimise disruption to the local community.”