Brighton protesters demand better protection for asylum-seeking children

Protesters have gathered in Brighton to demand better protection for asylum-seeking children.

Enquiries are being made after hundreds of minors under the Home Office's care have gone missing from hotels - including in Brighton.

There are reports some have been abducted by criminal gangs and bundled into cars – but the Home Office says there is no evidence to support those claims

Demonstrators took the streets near the Clock Tower, in Queen’s Road, last night (January 25th) calling for urgent action from the government.

Several people from a number of charities such as Care for Calais and Stand Up To Racism also made speeches.

Sasha, one of the organisers, said: "We are all here because of the horrific news that 136 children have gone missing from a hotel in our city.

"This is not an isolated case - the same is happening in hotels all over the country"

Brighton and Hove City Council has been working with police and the Home Office to locate the missing youngsters.

The Prime Minister has said it is the local authority's duty to protect children.

Hear the latest news on Downtown on FM, DAB, smart speaker or the Rayo app.

• protest