Sam Burgess, 33, was part of a demonstration outside the Brook Hotel in Barnard Road in Bowthorpe in July last year.

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The self-employed roofer denied using threatening and abusive behaviour towards four occupants of the hotel with intent to cause fear or provoke unlawful violence.

At his trial at Great Yarmouth Magistrates’ Court the case against him was dismissed after prosecutors offered no evidence.

Burgess, of Nelson Street, Norwich, was also cleared of burglary over claims he had entered the hotel and stolen a bottle of vodka.

The Brook Hotel in Bowthorpe has been the scene of protests and counter-protests (Image: Newsquest)

The Brook Hotel in Bowthorpe has been the scene of protests and counter-protests (Image: Newsquest)

The court ordered that his costs be reimbursed from government funds with the total sum to be assessed at a future date.

The Brook Hotel has been used to house more than 200 asylum seekers and has become a flashpoint for a series of protests and counter-protests.

Earlier this month Home Office sources said the hotel will no longer be used with people in the asylum system being housed in alternative accommodation.

However, no timescale was given for its closure.

© Norwich Evening News