A HOMELESS street preacher attacked members of a Christian congregation in a church hall claiming they were condoning homosexuality.

Paul Shaw, 67, began his homphobic tirade, at Colchester Baptist Church hall off Eld Lane, before throwing punches in all directions and striking an off-duty police officer minutes after the Sunday service had finished.

Shaw denied assault, despite admitting it while on the stand, and using threats or language with intent to cause fear or violence.

But he was found guilty of both offences at Colchester Magistrates’ Court yesterday.

See the full story in today's Gazette.