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Hundreds of people have gathered in a town in Northumberland to protest over illegal immigration. Organisers said the aim of the demonstration in Ashington was to make the Government recognise their concerns regarding safety in the town, which they say is being put at risk by "illegal immigrants".

A series of demonstrations over immigration and the use of hotels to house asylum seekers have erupted across the UK in recent weeks. Police were in attendance for the demonstration in Ashington town centre, where protestors called for the removal of "illegal immigrants" in the area and demanded a stop to "housing them for our children's future". Some demonstrators also called for "mass deportations" and to "stop the boats", according to reports.

Speaking ahead of the demonstration, Labour MP for Blyth and Ashington Ian Lavery warned protestors that "actions have consequences".

He said: "You might think you'll know everyone in attendance, but sadly these kinds of events are often infiltrated by people from outside the area with their own agendas.

"The anger out there is real - and justified. People in our communities live shorter, less healthy lives. Children are growing up in poverty. Schools are underfunded and crumbling. The NHS is under strain. People have less money in their pockets than at any time in a generation.

"But let's be clear: the people responsible for this decline are not those fleeing war or persecution. They are not the vulnerable seeking sanctuary."

Organisers asked for those in attendance to not wear face coverings and display "no violence", according to ChronicleLive.

The crowds first started gathering at midday but have since dispersed.

Northumbria Police have been contacted for a comment.

Since Labour's election win last year, more than 50,000 migrants have arrived in the UK after crossing the English Channel in small boats.