Bibby Stockholm: Vigil held for man who died on barge

People gathered outside Portland Port to pay their respects

A minute's silence has been held for a man who died on board the Bibby Stockholm barge in Dorset.

The man is thought to have taken his own life on the vessel where hundreds of male asylum seekers are housed.

A vigil outside Portland Port was called by refugee charity Care4Calais and Stand Up to Racism Dorset.

The campaigners say they are "seriously concerned" about conditions on board but the Home Office says the welfare of the men is of the "utmost importance".

Candy Unwin said people were devastated by the death on the barge

About 50 to 60 people, who were joined by six men from the barge, stood in silence at 11:30 GMT to remember the man who died. Many left flowers and cards, and lit candles.

Candy Unwin, of Stand Up to Racism Dorset, said: "People are devastated. We've always said the barge isn't a place to put people who have mental health issues. Something's got to be done."

Ahead of the vigil, Lynne Hubbard, also of Stand Up to Racism Dorset, said: "This is so sad and distressing. No-one should die alone on a prison barge, isolated from their friends and with family far away.

"We are seriously concerned about conditions on the barge, especially mental health support. That is why we are demanding an immediate end to any more refugees being placed on the barge."

Flowers and messages of condolence were left near the port gates

Portland Global Friendship Group volunteer Laney, who did not want to give her surname, said: "We have provided support to a number of residents who have suicidal thoughts.

"Conditions have got even worse now that there are over 300 men on board."

The Home Office said the death on Tuesday would be investigated by the police and coroner.

Campaigners say they are concerned about conditions on board the barge

A statement said: "This is a tragic incident, and our thoughts are with everyone affected.

"The welfare of all those in our care is of the utmost importance, and we take our responsibility for their wellbeing incredibly seriously."

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said men on the barge were assessed for signs of emotional trauma, and continued to have support available to them.

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