Police deployed additional public-order measures in Gosport, Hampshire, after 149 people were brought ashore following a Channel rescue operation, with demonstrations taking place near Haslar Marina.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary said officers were deployed to support partner agencies and facilitate peaceful protest after reports of a small boat crossing in the English Channel. The force introduced restrictions under the Public Order Act and other legislation.

The vessel was met in English waters by two RNLI boats after being shadowed by French rescue vessels. The Home Office said 149 people were believed to have been on board and confirmed they would be taken to short-term holding facilities in Kent for processing, including health, security and biometric checks.

Demonstrators gathered around Haslar Marina, with police directing protesters to a designated area. Reports said the demonstration was largely peaceful, although flares were set off and there were some scuffles with officers.

Police also used powers to restrict the wearing of face coverings intended to conceal identities during protest activity. A dispersal order covering Gosport was also put in place.

The incident comes amid continued attention on small boat activity in the English Channel and the arrangements used to safely bring people ashore and process them in the UK. The Home Office publishes daily provisional information on Channel activity.