Epping council demands government 'immediately' close asylum hotel – as Home Office works to 'restore order'

Tensions rise as protests held outside Epping hotel

Protesters and counter-demonstrators gathered in Epping near The Bell Hotel, which is being used to house migrants. A group carrying Union flags was seen outside the site. Police have imposed restrictions to prevent violence or disorder ahead of further protests expected later in the day. Report by Covellm. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn

Justice Sec: People have right to peaceful protest

Justice Secretary Shabana Mahmood said ''If you break the law you will face the full force of the law'' when asked about prospect of unrest as Epping braces itself for further protests. It comes as police have arrested 16 people after a protest outside a migrant hotel last week. Eight officers were injured and a number of police vehicles were damaged as missiles were thrown. Report by Gluszczykm. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn

Essex Police denies they 'bussed' Epping counter-protesters

Essex Police has denied claims it "bussed" counter-protesters to a demonstration outside a hotel housing asylum seekers last week. Speaking at a press conference on Wednesday, Chief Constablel of Essex, Ben-Julian Harrington said: "What has been unacceptable has been the people who have come to Epping and committed violence." Report by Kennedyl. Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/itn and follow us on Twitter at http://twitter.com/itn