RESIDENTS, charities, and local businesses have shared their views on national disorder which has terrorised towns and cities, with some people fearing it could spread to Colchester.

Violence and looting have caused thousands of pounds’ worth of damage in towns including Plymouth, Weymouth, Aldershot, Tamworth, and Rotherham.

Riots first broke out in Merseyside last Tuesday after three children were stabbed to death at a dance studio in Southport.

Concern – though it is not believed Colchester will be subject of any disorder, there are worries that national unrest could spread furtherConcern – though it is not believed Colchester will be subject of any disorder, there are worries that national unrest could spread further (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

It has sparked disorder across most of England’s major cities as well as several large towns where businesses have been torched and police officers attacked.

Anti-immigration protestors also attacked a Holiday Inn Express housing migrants in Rotherham on Monday.

The Colchester-based charity Refugee, Asylum Seeker and Migrant Action (RAMA), released a statement on Tuesday saying it was “appalled” by the riots.

A post on Facebook read: “These violent and racial attacks have caused significant distress and disruption within the nation, from witnessing it via online platforms and reading about it in the news.

“The violence and racial attacks have been significantly driven by misinformation and racist rhetoric spread online, which has led to the normalisation of dehumanising language targeting minority groups, portraying them as threats rather than individuals in need of refuge and support.”

“We are extremely grateful for the support shown by our local police, our MP Pam Cox and the council who have all reached out to ask how they can help and respond to these fears.

“We are grateful to all the remarkable people within the Colchester area who consistently support our clients finding a new home.”

Vivienne Prime, who is 88 and lives in Colchester, told the Gazette the unrest was partially caused by successive governments being out of step with the electorate.

Perception – Vivienne Prime said governments have lost touch with peoplePerception – Vivienne Prime said governments have lost touch with people (Image: Daniel Rees, Newsquest)

She said: “I don’t think the Government has marched in time with the gradual change with people.

"People can’t be palmed off with this.

"You try to understand it – it’s spreading from town to town.

“It could come  here – you never think it will happen, but it could happen to you.”