THOUSANDS protested yesterday after 27 migrants were moved into a former military camp in the dead of night.
They marched in opposition to plans for another 500 to be transferred to the site near Crowborough, East Sussex.
Three protesters were arrested at the camp on Friday, including a 62-year-old woman, after asylum seekers arrived the night before.
One sign yesterday read: “Grandparents arrested shame on you.”
Yesterday’s march ended peacefully, with no arrests made.
But police presence will remain high in the town.
Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner Katy Bourne said policing the site could cost taxpayers an extra £5.5million.
The force confirmed it had asked the Home Office for more funding.
Chief Superintendent James Collis said: “I would like to thank the public at the protest and affected by the protest for their patience and understanding.”
“We know that the use of the Crowborough Training Camp for asylum accommodation has caused concern within the community.
“Our police presence has been increased in Crowborough and the surrounding area to provide a clear point of contact for the public for engagement and reassurance.
“This presence will continue over the coming weeks.”
