Protestors are set to gather at Portland Port on Saturday (May 13) to voice their concerns about hosting refugees on a "prison barge".

Stand Up To Racism Dorset is organising a solidarity march and family-friendly protest at Portland Port.

Protestors will gather at the Gateway Pillars in Victoria Square Roundabout on Portland at 12.30 pm where they will march towards Portland Port.

Organisers have said the protest will make clear that refugees are welcome in Dorset, but that they should not be housed on a barge.

Protesters have raised concerns about the potential profits that Portland Port could make out of its agreement with the government to house the proposed barge.

Reports suggest that Dorset business Langham Industries, which owns Portland Port, will make £2.5 million from its first 18-month contract.

Lynne Hubbard, joint Chair of Stand Up to Racism Dorset, said: “We welcome refugees, but it’s just not right to imprison them in Portland without the resources that are needed, and when Portland Port will be making huge profits from this situation.

“Please join us on this peaceful demonstration of solidarity with refugees and in protest against the prison barge and those who aim to profit from refugees.

The barge in Portland Harbour due to arrive in June will house over 500 men in 220 berths.

Protestors will also demand adequate funding for NHS and welfare services that are needed to support Portland communities and all those who come to live in South Dorset.

Portland Councillor Carralyn Parkes said: “Refugees are people fleeing war and crisis.

"The government has closed routes by which most can reach the UK– now it says those who arrive after long, dangerous journeys are ‘illegal’. Inhumane barges and army camps are no solution.”

In a previous statement, Portland Port chief executive Bill Reeves said: "There will be close co-operation with local agencies, including the health, welfare and emergency services during the preparations for the vessel’s arrival and its operation.

"We also hope to work closely with local community and voluntary groups.

“Some of the asylum seekers coming to Portland Port may be from war-torn countries where they have seen their communities destroyed, friends and family killed or have been in danger of losing their own lives.

“Many are traumatised but decent people who deserve a safe haven, and a welcome worthy of the warmth and decency of local people."