Fire breaks out and arrests made during violent clashes between far-right and police in Rotherham

Fire broke out and multiple people were arrested as police officers faced violent far-right rioters outside the Holiday Inn Express in Rotherham after the mob broke in to the hotel, which houses asylum seekers. (4 August 2024)

“Those who stood by and simply watched thugs try to set fire to a building containing other human beings will reflect on what they have become and what they have associated themselves with,” Cllr. Chris Read, Leader of Rotherham Council, said in a statement following the disorder.

Protesters were heard chanting “Yorkshire” as they smashed through doors to gain entrance to the hotel.

Sir Keir Starmer said he could “guarantee” protesters would “regret taking part in this disorder” in a statement the same day.