Two men have been charged in connection with an arson attack on a mosque earlier this month.
Ricky Ryder, 38, and Jack Slowey, 34, have been remanded in custody and will appear at Westminster Magistrates’ Court later today.
Both men have been charged with arson with intent to endanger life following the incident in Peacehaven, East Sussex, on 4 October.
No one was injured in the fire, which damaged the front entrance of the mosque as well as a parked car.
Sussex Police had earlier released footage that showed two people wearing balaclavas spraying a suspected accelerant outside the building.
A 42-year-old man who was arrested in connection with the investigation has been released on police bail.
Detectives have urged the public “not to speculate online around the circumstances of the incident, or share anything which could influence a trial”.
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Yesterday, the prime minister announced an additional £10m in funding to protect Muslim communities from hate crimes and attacks.
The investment will provide security measures including CCTV cameras, alarm systems and secure fencing.
Sir Keir Starmer said: “Britain is a proud and tolerant country. Attacks on any community are attacks on our entire nation and our values.
“This funding will provide Muslim communities with the protection they need and deserve, allowing them to live in peace and safety.
“I want a Britain built for all and my government is committed to delivering safer streets for everyone – and that means protecting places of worship from those who seek to divide us through hate and violence.”
His announcement was made during a visit to the mosque in Peacehaven alongside Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood.
