While many guests at the Heathlands Hotel reported no problems over the weekend, others were upset they were not given prior notice the group of asylum seekers were staying there.

One coach party from Wigan, right, who had come down for the AFC Bournemouth game, claimed they were taken aback by the lack of information from the hotel.

While none of them wanted to be named, many spoke about their surprise to see many of the asylum seekers outside the hotel when they arrived on Friday.

One lady, who asked not to be named, said: “If Bournemouth was going to become a place for asylum seekers, I don’t think I will be coming here anymore.

“I can imagine it will damage the tourism image of the town greatly.”

She added: “While we don’t have any issues with the people who are here – they haven’t caused any problems or engaged with people – we would have liked the courtesy of being told they were here.

“It’s about being able to make an informed choice.”

Another added: “It’s just not a great impression for people visiting Bournemouth.”

Staff at the Heathlands Hotel declined to comment.