Man admits kicking police during riot

A man who kicked police officers and threw bricks has pleaded guilty to rioting during unrest.

John Kirtley was seen holding a blue flare, shouting “England ‘til I die” as he threw a beer keg at officers who were guarding a mosque in Sunderland on 2 August.

Appearing at Newcastle Crown Court, the 26-year-old, of Rutherglen Road in the city, pleaded guilty to riot.

Kirtley, who had previously admitted violent disorder, will be sentenced on 31 January.

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