“News that a man has been charged with sexual offences that include inciting a teenage girl to engage in sexual activity has understandably given cause to great concern and anxiety in Epping, as it would in any community. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those who have been affected, including local parents who are worried about the safety of their children.

“At the same time it has been very concerning to watch the events unfold outside the Bell Hotel.

“It is right that we debate and discuss how the Government manages arrangements for those who seek asylum in our country. Peaceful protest also has a legitimate and important role in our democracy, but violent disorder, intimidation and criminal damage do not. What we have seen during some of the protests since those charges were announced, and the man was remanded in custody, is the cynical hijacking of this profoundly disturbing situation, culminating in violence and criminal behaviour targeted at the police and innocent people at the Bell Hotel who have nothing to do with the alleged sexual offences.

“We want to express our gratitude to the police officers and other emergency services who have been responding to the case and protecting people in Epping, as well as all those in the local community, including people from local churches, who are working to overcome hatred and build cohesion at this very difficult and challenging time.”

The Rt Rev’d Dr Guli Francis-Dehqani, Bishop of Chelmsford

The Rt Rev’d Adam Atkinson, Bishop of Bradwell

The Venerable Jonathan Croucher, Archdeacon of Chelmsford

The Rev’d John Fry, Team Rector, Epping District