RNLI volunteers warned not to wear their uniform after ‘abuse’ from anti-migrant protesters

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RNLI volunteers have been warned not to wear charity-branded clothing following “unacceptable abuse” from anti-migrant protesters.

Demonstrators sparked fury after branding lifeboat staff “traitors” for rescuing a boat carrying asylum seekers on Sunday night.

Around 200 people, some wearing face coverings, descended on Eastney ferry port in Portsmouth after 140 migrants were brought to shore.

Cops guarded coaches parked near the marina, as protesters blocked the flow of traffic and stopped RNLI teams from accessing the port.

And as the brave lifeboat crews returned to shore, they were branded “traitors” and met with abuse by the balaclava-clad crowd.

One shouted: “Look at these guys absolute traitors to this country. Look at the state of you.”

The RNLI has now issued security advice for its hardworking staff in the wake of protests in Portsmouth and Dover.

Protests have also been held at sites belonging to the charity, including an anti-migrant gathering outside the RNLI College in Poole, Dorset.

In a statement today, the RNLI said it had taken action to ensure the “safety and wellbeing” of staff following the “unacceptable abuse”.

It said: “As well as enhancing security at RNLI locations, we issued guidance to our people earlier this week on how to keep themselves safe.

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“This guidance included how to manage potentially challenging interactions with members of the public, and where appropriate, choosing not to wear RNLI-branded clothing.

“Our people have been reminded that their safety comes first.

“They are encouraged to report relevant incidents internally and, where appropriate, to the police.”

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Saturday 12 September

Bournemouth