In July 2025, an asylum seeker staying at the Bell hotel in the small Essex town of Epping was arrested for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl. The incident triggered a series of violent protests by some local people and far-right actors from across the country, drawing the attention of even billionaire Elon Musk. Counter-protests also emerged from residents appalled by what they saw as racism.
Twelve Months On: The Town's Recovery
Tim Burrows has travelled to Epping to speak to people about how the protests affected them. He tells Helen Pidd what he heard, and what happened to the hotel and those who were staying there. Twelve months after the first protest broke out, he charts how the town recovered from a summer of unrest.
Burrows found that while the physical damage has been repaired, the social fabric remains strained. Many residents expressed relief that the immediate violence has subsided, but deep divisions persist. Some locals who participated in the protests still feel their concerns about immigration were ignored, while others are ashamed of the far-right presence that descended on their town.
The Bell Hotel and Asylum Seekers
The Bell hotel, which had been housing asylum seekers, was badly damaged during the protests. According to Burrows, the hotel has since been closed for refurbishment, and the asylum seekers were relocated to other facilities. Local businesses suffered during the unrest, with some reporting a drop in customers that has only partially recovered.
Impact on the Community
One resident told Burrows: "It was terrifying. We've never seen anything like it in Epping. But I think the town is trying to move on." Another said: "The far-right people weren't from here. They came in and caused trouble. That's not who we are." The incident has also led to increased community dialogue, with local groups organizing meetings to address tensions.
Burrows notes that the arrest of the asylum seeker and subsequent legal proceedings have not yet concluded, leaving a cloud over the town. However, many are hopeful that the passage of time will heal the wounds.
