Tensions run high in Hastings over small boat arrivals

While many in East Sussex town have rushed to help when refugees arrive on the beach, some are less welcoming

Ten days ago, people stood on the beach in Hastings and tried to prevent a lifeboat crew from going into the sea to rescue a group of refugees in a flimsy dinghy. According to a witness, they were shouting at the RNLI: Don't bring any more of those, we're full up, that's why we stopped our donations."

Meanwhile, a group from the same town calling itself Hastings Supports Refugees has set up what is thought to be the first emergency response team run by volunteers to welcome the bedraggled, traumatised newcomers and provide them with hot food and drinks, dry clothes and a warm welcome as soon as they come ashore.