FRIDAY evening’s protest in Epping has now finished and took place peacefully.

A large group of people gathered to protest outside The Bell hotel, facilitated by our officers.

The group then moved towards the town centre and officers ensured they could do that safely,

They put in place provisions to ensure those who wanted to could express their right to protest while also ensuring the community could go about their evening safely.

This included a specific area where people could assemble and that the demonstration should finish no later than 8.30pm.

Chief Superintendent Simon Anslow said: “Tonight has seen another peaceful protest in Epping with people able to make their voices heard in a safe and lawful way.

“The orders we put in place are there to make sure protests can take place with everyone – demonstrators, hotel residents and staff and other members of the public – being safe.

“Throughout the evening our officers engaged with those their protesting. They ensured they could express their right to protest while also ensure minimal impact on the rest of the community.”

One man was arrested after an officer was struck by an object, another was arrested on suspicion of breaching court bail conditions, both are currently in custody.