Police were called out as a community held a protest to prevent attempts to evict a disabled man from his home.

Emad Hamami has lived in Grasmere Close, Earlham for the last 13 years with his two children and carer, and suffered a stroke in 2019.

The 55-year-old has been battling with Norwich City Council to stay in the property after claims he is under-occupying the two-bedroom house.

Norwich Evening News: Emad Hamami, 55, has been battling Norwich City Council for three years to stay in his homeEmad Hamami, 55, has been battling Norwich City Council for three years to stay in his home (Image: Acorn Norwich)
However yesterday, on the proposed day of eviction, more than 30 friends, family and community members came out to stop the attempt by the council.

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Mr Hamami, 55, was overwhelmed by the support, saying: "I'm so thankful for everyone's support.

"I haven't had this kind of support for the last three years.

Norwich Evening News: People from ACORN Norwich and the community outside Mr Hamami's house to stop his evictionPeople from ACORN Norwich and the community outside Mr Hamami's house to stop his eviction (Image: ACORN Norwich)
"I finally feel I have the power in my hands thanks to the community and everyone who is helping me."

Community union Acorn says it contacted the council and got confirmation that its housing team had called off the eviction.

This newspaper contacted Norwich City Council, who declined to comment on the matter.

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The dispute stems from Mr Hamami separating from his now ex-wife which saw his two children Matin, 13, and Dean, 17, leave under her custody.

Norwich Evening News: Emad Hamami, 55, has lived in Grasmere Close for 13 yearsEmad Hamami, 55, has lived in Grasmere Close for 13 years (Image: Acorn Norwich)
Mr Hamami now says he has both children living with him but can't submit evidence of this to the council until mid-December due to legal proceedings.

An Acorn representative added: "We were joined in this action today by members of Acorn, friends and Emad’s neighbours - who he's known for years - all here to support him.

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"It shows we have the power to change things for the better in our neighbourhoods, when we realise our strength, by standing together."

Norwich Evening News: Mr Hamami said thanked everyone who had helped and supported himMr Hamami said thanked everyone who had helped and supported him (Image: Acorn Norwich)

A police spokesman said: "Police attended a property in Grasmere Close in Norwich shortly before 10.30am on November 16, 2023 because of an ongoing civil matter.

"Several people had gathered at the address. No arrests were made and no criminal offences were committed. Officers left at 10.42am."