Volunteer mosque worker 'encouraged' violence during riots

But he's spared jail after Islamic leader comes to his defence

- Sentinel Reporter

A VOLUNTEER mosque worker has been spared jail for his part in the Hanley riots.

Ryan Corden's case has been branded 'strange' after he acted 'out of character'.

Stoke-on-Trent Crown Court heard 35-year-old Corden gives up his own time to do building work at the Town Road mosque. But on August 3 last year, he became embroiled in violence that erupted in the city centre.

Much of the unrest centred on the Town Road mosque where Corden has helped out.

Now he has narrowly escaped prison after an Islamic leader came to his defence.

Prosecutor David Bennett told the court Corden followed along with far-right protesters, hurling abuse at officers while trying to break the police line.

He said Corden had riled fellow agitators and fuelled disorder throughout the day, adding: “He could be seen throughout the duration of the riot, often on the front line encouraging the actions of others. He was involved in four significant incidents throughout the day.