Protest takes place outside hotel housing refugees in Newquay
Cornwall Council previously urged everyone to show "warmth and tolerance" to those residing in the Beresford Hotel
Last updated 25th Feb 2023
Hundreds of people have turned out for protests outside a hotel housing refugees in Cornwall.
Anti-asylum seeker protestors and counter protestors are both at the Beresford Hotel in Newquay.
Cornwall Council had previously urged people not to attend, calling on the public to show "warmth and tolerance" to those staying in the hotel:
"The planned protests are not welcome and we call upon everyone to consider the circumstances of the individuals residing there. We encourage people not to attend the protests.
"The Council, health agencies, charities, police and other partners continue to work together to ensure that every resident feels safe and secure in the town.
"For more information about the placement of asylum seekers at the hotel see the Cornwall Council website.
"If anyone has concerns they would like to share with the Council please email refugeehelp@cornwall.gov.uk."
Those behind the anti-asylum seeker demonstration claimed it would be a "peaceful protest".
Counter protestors from Cornwall Resists have also been in attendance, saying "we want a diverse Cornwall, that's a sanctuary for refugees":
"We live in Cornwall, and we want to avoid seeing the violence that’s taken place across the UK replicated here.
"Violence towards refugees is rising across the UK with life threatening attacks to a centre in Dover and fireworks thrown at the hotel in Knowsley."
Anti-migrant protesters have gathered in recent weeks outside hotels in Knowsley, Merseyside and Rotherham, South Yorkshire, where they have clashed with counter-demonstrators.
Previously Devon and Cornwall Police said: "We are aware of a planned protest due to take place on Saturday 25 February in Newquay.
"We are seeking to engage with the protest organisers. Police will facilitate peaceful protest and use relevant legislation to keep communities safe."