Protestor kicked officer in the back

A Sunderland man has admitted kicking a police officer in the back after getting the train to London as part of a group that sought to protect statues during the Black Lives Matter protests.

Daniel John Allan has been remanded in custody after appearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court on Monday, for violence after right-wing protesters and the police clashed in central London on Saturday.

The 35-year-old, of Ridley Terrace, was arrested on Saturday after kicking a policeman in the back.

He was later spotted in the crowd due to his “distinctive appearance” – a pair of luminous shorts.

The father-of-two has now pleaded guilty to one count of violent disorder against a police officer.

Jennifer Gatland, prosecuting, said Allan travelled from his home as groups of right-wing protesters sought to protect statues around Whitehall and Trafalgar Square.

She said Allan “kicked out” at a policeman from behind, “suddenly and without provocation” and was later spotted due to his attire.

Remanding Allan into custody, District Judge Nicholas Rimmer said: “The seriousness of your conduct consists of being part of wider protesters in which missiles were thrown.

“You personally kicked out at (the police sergeant), that appears to have catalysed the violence.”

Eleanor Fraser, representing Allan, said he has a previous conviction for violence in 2010, and suffered with depression and anxiety.