Amesbury himself publicly backed Starmer’s response to the riots earlier this year, saying the “thugs and criminals” involved should be jailed for up to ten years. He has also spoken out against attacks by retail workers in the past, calling for those attacked to be “protected by the law”. Voters say these attitudes are now troubling.

“I think this guy is a disgrace, and his leader (Starmer) is a disgrace. Clearly he is a bully, evil little man who should be put in jail,” says a local shop owner.

“To me it’s aggressive behavior and there’s quite a lot of aggressive behavior around here, so it shows he’s no better than everyone else,” adds Lorraine Ollier, 59, who works at the local community centre. “This is not acceptable behaviour. People respect him, so how can one respect someone who is violent? I think this is absolutely unacceptable behavior and it is disgusting. Someone has to do something, you cannot allow this behavior to exist.”

Not everyone seems horrified, though. In fact, some in the area are quick to praise Amesbury and his weekend actions. “I’m not worried at all, I like to see leaders with some toughness and backbone,” says Steve Hart, a 65-year-old retiree.

“I think he should have bolted (hit) it. If someone comes and hits you (hits you), you won’t be able to bear it; This man attacked him and knocked him out. “Of course he (Amesbury) should stay in Parliament, let’s hope he does a good job in office.”