Protesters gather in Gosport after reports of migrant dinghy arrival

Become an Independent member to bookmark this article Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Membership today. Join today Already a member? Log in Protesters gather in Gosport after reports of migrant dinghy arrival Suha Kidwai Sunday 04 October 2026 20:21 BST Bookmark popover Removed from bookmarks Close popover Police and demonstrators during a protest in Gosport ( PA ) Around 100 protesters gathered in Gosport following reports that a migrant dinghy carrying approximately 120 people was approaching British waters from Normandy. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary deployed officers to the area, imposing Public Order Act conditions and banning face coverings. Gosport MP Caroline Dinenage stated there was no indication the boat would land in Hampshire, though authorities prepared for potential arrivals. This marks the third migrant boat departure from Normandy in a month, a route that has historically been rare for Channel crossings. Provisional figures show 19,451 Channel crossings have been recorded this year, down significantly compared to the same period in recent years. In full Anti-migrant protesters gather in seaside town as dinghy crosses the Channel