FIVE Iraqi children have claimed asylum at Poole Port in the last fortnight, fuelling fears the area is being targeted by refugees.

The children, all of whom were aged 16 and unaccompanied, arrived at the port in several groups over the last fortnight. Because there were no adults with them, they have become the responsibility of Poole's Social Services department and are now living in the borough.

Poole currently supports three asylum seeking families and twelve unaccompanied children and receives a Home Office grant to support the children.

Concern that Poole would become a target for refugees seeking a way into the UK grew when it was revealed the Sangatte camp would be closing in November.

Harbour ward Cllr Brian Leverett said he is very concerned that he had to learn about the asylum seekers from the media and not from council officers.

He called on the council to be open and honest with the public and warned that secrecy would only increase fears.

"There are genuine fears in the community and councillors and the public need to know exactly what the situation is," he said.

"Are we going to have a situation where we end up responsible for refugees because this is the place where they have landed? This is what people fear and this is why we need honest answers. I am becoming increasingly concerned and, along with the whole of Poole, I am looking for assurances that Poole is not going to be picking up a large number of asylum seekers."

A spokesperson for the Home Office refused to give any more information on the Iraqi children because of confidentiality laws.