I have been moved to tears this week by the tragic story of Abdulfatah Hamdallah, the young Sudanese man who was found dead on a beach at Calais after trying to cross the Channel in a dinghy, using shovels for oars.

If only he had been allowed to apply for UK asylum while still in France, he would never have attempted this dangerous voyage.

Sadly, Witham MP and Home Secretary Priti Patel has set her face against allowing such applications. Instead, she spends her time blaming ‘criminal gangs’ for illegal crossings.

There is absolutely no evidence that any criminal gang was involved in Abdulfatah Hamdallah’s journey.

Meanwhile, I read in the Times (August 20) that the extremist ex-MEP Nigel Farage has fetched up at the Rivenhall Hotel, trying to stir up hatred for the asylum seekers who, perfectly legally, were temporarily housed there.

Throughout its history, the UK has been built on welcoming people from other lands.

The skills and strengths which they have brought have helped ensure that our country is one of the most prosperous in the world.

To turn away potential immigrants – and, worse, to try to demonise them – is cruel, foolish and short-sighted.

I urge Priti Patel and Nigel Farage, and anyone who supports their opinions, to start to appreciate the real benefits of immigration, and to promote feelings not of fear, but of compassion.

David Martin

Bridge Street, Witham