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EDL leader in court on assault charge

Belinda Cranston,Pa
Monday 22 November 2010 04:19 EST

English Defence League founder Stephen Lennon will face court today over the alleged assault of a police officer during clashes with Islamic protesters.

Lennon, 27, of Layham Drive, Luton, was arrested by police in Kensington, west London, as the nation stopped to mark the anniversary of Armistice Day.

Five others associated with his group were also arrested, as members of Muslims Against Crusades, a group which purports to "expose the enemies of Islam", burned remembrance poppies.

Two Muslim protesters were arrested for public order offences.

One officer was taken to hospital with a head injury during the clashes, as about 50 men linked to EDL were kept separate as they shouted abuse.

Lennon was later charged with assaulting a police officer.

He was released on bail to appear at West London Magistrates' Court today.

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