A telecommunications manager from Crowborough, Liam Tomsett, shares his journey into the far-right movement in a Channel 4 documentary called England ’Til I Die. His concerns began with nearby army camps housing asylum seekers, which he believed were changing the character of his affluent Sussex town. Crowborough, known for welcoming Ukrainian refugees, has seen growing tensions as Tomsett and his friend Gary formed the protest group "Crowborough Says No" to oppose the asylum center.
Tomsett describes his initial protests as attempts to make people uncomfortable about the asylum center, but the situation escalated into violence. He was arrested and charged with common assault and possession of an offensive weapon, though the charges were later dropped. Tomsett claims he carries a hammer in his car for DIY purposes, and he denies being intimidating, stating he was simply engaging asylum seekers in conversation. However, he was arrested again for harassing a business owner who wanted to offer training to asylum seekers, though he was released without further action.
The documentary highlights how Tomsett's involvement became a cause célèbre, drawing in groups such as Raise the Colours and "citizen journalists" who spread divisive messages online. Live streamers, who often attract more viewers than mainstream television, have played a significant role in amplifying these messages. The documentary's maker, Jamie Roberts, notes the influence of social media echo chambers and the spread of misinformation, which have fueled division and fear in the community.
Tomsett’s personal life has suffered, with his new partner, Shana, stating he has been suspended from his job and has few friends. Local residents describe Tomsett as a local thug who publicly blames asylum seekers for violence against women and girls, despite statistics showing over 29,000 domestic violence incidents in Sussex. A local barman, George, says the community is terrified of the anti-immigration protesters. Shana claims Tomsett opened her eyes to concerns about the rapid increase of Muslims in the UK and the idea of a hidden agenda to replace white British people by globalists, though Tomsett cannot clearly define who these globalists are.
Jamie Roberts attributes the division to isolation, economic anxiety, and a sense of national decline, with complex problems increasingly blamed on immigration and the asylum system. He notes that Liam lost his father at the start of the process and worked from home during the pandemic, which may have contributed to his immersion in online content. Tomsett insists his actions are about keeping his community safe, not about beliefs, and is prepared to risk everything for his political goals. The documentary notes that similar patterns are emerging across the UK, with violence erupting in Dover, Essex, Norfolk, and Portsmouth.
Once a peaceful village known for its safety and community spirit, Crowborough now suffers from a lack of trust and fear. Locals are less likely to interact in public places like Waitrose, and the documentary highlights the deepening division and mistrust. Jamie Roberts was shocked by the high level of tension in the town, describing it as extremely volatile, with people divided, women confronted, asylum seekers chased, and individuals doxxed online. He notes that the same group or network is applying itself to different towns, with clear goals and organization.
Far-Right Activist's Descent Into Protest and Division in Sussex Town
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