New update after jailed rioter, 61, dies in prison

The preliminary cause of death of a 61-year-old grandfather, who was found dead in prison after he was jailed following rioting outside a hotel housing asylum seekers, is hanging, an inquest has heard.

Peter Lynch died at HMP Moorland, in South Yorkshire, on October 19, Doncaster Coroner’s Court was told on Thursday.

Doncaster’s senior coroner Nicola Mundy opened and adjourned the inquest into Mr Lynch’s death at which she was told that his preliminary cause of death was hanging.

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Mr Lynch was jailed for two years and eight months at Sheffield Crown Court by a judge who heard how he was at the front of a mob which gathered outside the Holiday Inn Express, at Manvers, Rotherham, on August 4, shouting “scum” and “child killers” at police. He was pictured holding a placard asserting the corruption of MPs, judges, the media and the police.

A mob of people had gathered outside the hotel, which was being used to house asylum seekers. Bodycam footage showed Lynch shouting 'you are protecting people who are killing our kids and raping them' and 'scum' at police officers who were holding riot shields.

Around 240 asylum seekers became trapped by the mob in the upper storeys. Staff have revealed that they had barricaded themselves in a panic room and that they feared for their lives during the chaos.

Police were targeted missiles including fencing. A bin outside the hotel was also set on fire, and some rioters attempted to break into the building.

The 61-year-old grandfather pleaded guilty to violent disorder. During his sentencing hearing on August 22 the court heard that he suffered from thyroid issues, diabetes, angina, and had previously had a heart attack.

Sentencing, Judge Jeremy Richardson KC said: “You did not yourself attack any police officer, as far as can be detected, but what you did was encourage by your conduct others to behave violently and you were part of this mob."

Judge Richardson asked mitigating barrister Ian West the meaning of the placard. West replied: “It’s a general conspiracy theory against anyone and any form of authority. This was slightly off-topic from what was going on that day.”

Lynch, from Wath-upon-Dearne in Rotherham, was married for 36 years and had four adult children and three grandchildren.

Helplines and websites

Samaritans (116 123) samaritans.org operates a 24-hour service available every day of the year. If you prefer to write down how you’re feeling, or if you’re worried about being overheard on the phone, you can email Samaritans at jo@samaritans.org , write to Freepost RSRB-KKBY-CYJK, PO Box 9090, STIRLING, FK8 2SA and visit www.samaritans.org/branches to find your nearest branch.

For support for people feeling suicidal, if you are concerned about someone or if you are bereaved by suicide see http://shiningalightonsuicide.org.uk

CALM (0800 58 58 58) thecalmzone.net has a helpline is for men who are down or have hit a wall for any reason, who need to talk or find information and support. They're open 5pm to midnight, 365 days a year.

Greater Manchester Bereavement Service Greater Manchester Bereavement Service can help to find support for anyone in Greater Manchester that has been bereaved or affected by a death. No one needs to feel alone as they deal with their grief. www.greater-manchester-bereavement-service.org.uk

Childline (0800 1111 ) runs a helpline for children and young people in the UK. Calls are free and the number won’t show up on your phone bill.

PAPYRUS (0800 068 41 41) is a voluntary organisation supporting teenagers and young adults who are feeling suicidal.

Beat Eating Disorders: Beat provides helplines for adults and young people offering support and information about eating disorders. These helplines are free to call from all phones. Adult Helpline: 0808 801 0677, Studentline: 0808 801 0811, Youthline: 0808 801 0711. www.beateatingdisorders.org.uk

Anorexia & Bulimia Care: ABC provide on-going care, emotional support and practical guidance for anyone affected by eating disorders, those struggling personally and parents, families and friends. Helpline: 03000 11 12 13. www.anorexiabulimiacare.org.uk/

Students Against Depression is a website for students who are depressed, have a low mood or are having suicidal thoughts. Bullying UK is a website for both children and adults affected by bullying studentsagainstdepression.org

For information and links to charities and organisations that can help with substance abuse, visit https://www.supportline.org.uk/problems/drugs/