A yob who took part in a violent protest against a Black Lives Matter demonstration has been jailed.
Norman Vose, a tiler who has never been in trouble before, joined in with several others who clashed with police and those who gathered in Newcastle city centre for a planned peaceful protest in support of the anti-racism movement.
An angry mob gathered at Grey's Monument and in ugly scenes, police came under attack and officers, horses and dogs were injured as missiles were thrown, including bottles, cans and smoke grenades. A number of people have already been locked up for their part in the shameful violent disorder - all but one from the counter-protesting group, some of whom were affiliated with the far right, Hells Angels, or football hooligans.
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Newcastle Crown Court heard Vose turned up around 2.15pm on June 13 2020, wearing a hi-visibility workman's jacket and carrying a bag containing alcohol. Prosecutor Jolyon Perks said that around 4pm police tried to move the counter protesters back and Vose made his way to the front of the group behind some Hell's Angels.
Mr Perks added: "The defendant was seen shouting and pointing before throwing a can at the police, showering the officer with liquid.
"He went to confront Black Lives Matter supporters on Blackett Street carrying a can of alcohol and reached the front and ignored police requests to move back. He was pushed forcefully by the police.
"The police tried to remove the counter protesters and the defendant was pushing and surging from the rear and was pointing at the police and chanting.
"He worked his way to the front and joined in the violence towards the police. He charged the police line and was trying to kick out at the police."
When he was interviewed by police, Vose said he had attended to protect the monument and was hit by a can and reacted by throwing it back. After the riot, he helped someone who suffered a heart attack at Old Eldon Square, giving CPR and calling 999.
Vose, 58, of Williams Park, Benton, North Tyneside, pleaded guilty to violent disorder and was jailed for 26 months.
The court was given "glowing references" from people who know Vose, saying he was hard-working and kind and had raised money for charity. Tony Cornberg, defending, said: "He didn't directly cause or intend any of the injuries caused.
"He has obvious remorse and is clearly not a danger to the public. There are other ways to punish him."
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