Tensions rise after asylum seekers arrive in Skegness
DURING the summer months beneath sunny skies the seaside resort of Skegness is a hive of family activity, offering visitors a warm welcome.
But on a chilly November day the mood is as sombre as the weather as a frosty reception is offered to asylum seekers who have been bussed into five hotels across the small coastal town.
Tensions are rising among the mass of deserted seafront spots that are at odds with “no vacancy” signs clearly visible among the windows of the town’s hotels.
Skegness, which is home to 20,000 people, attracts 2.3 million visitors annually in an ecosystem that is entirely reliant on tourism.
The anger of locals that the migrant situation will deter visitors is palpable, while fake rumours and wild tales of migrants’ behaviour add to their angst.
Grandmother Jill Horlock, 67, a retired supermarket worker, said: “I don’t blame the hotels for taking the money during the winter months when they are usually empty, but it will be a problem in summer when they are full and it stops families coming.”
Chantelle Kelly, 43, a full-time carer, pointed out the town needs investment, saying: “I know England is a safe haven but we are in trouble as well. We’re going into a recession.”
Local hotelier Dee Allen, who runs the Hatters Hotel with husband Gary, has twice refused Home Office requests to house asylum-seekers.
Dee says she would rather her business “die” than host 52 migrants. She said: “Both times we were offered £10,000 per week, but it would have meant us letting go of our staff and cancelling bookings. We could not do that to Skegness. It’s
shocking to think some hotels have been willing to do this. They are choosing money over their own community.”
Barman Lee Housley, a dad of four, said: “Something needs to be done or it will destroy this seaside town. We can’t afford to help our own needy people.”
Restaurant worker Gary Lineker, 62, who shares a famous name, agreed and said: “It’s going to ruin Skegness.”
The migrants say they are nervous of locals and stay in groups for safety.
“Jack”, 49, a factory owner whose family paid smugglers £10,000 to help him escape from Iran, said: “We are not criminals.” He has found a voluntary role with two fellow migrants helping to renovate a church community building.
He said: “I had to leave my wife and two children behind. It’s a desperate situation. I’d love to work but I’m not allowed so this is the next best thing.”
Fellow volunteer “Ben”, 42, added: “Nobody really tries to speak to us and learn our situation. We just want to live safe but are stuck unable to work. This is not how I envisaged Britain to be.”