More than 100 people came together outside Ipswich's Novotel to show their support for refugees, chanting: "Say it loud. Say it clear. Refugees are welcome here."

The chant was accompanied by car horns beeping and Novotel residents waving out of the windows, as less than 20 anti-refugee demonstrators turned up to protest.

Ipswich Star: More than 100 people gathered outside Novotel for the counter-protest.More than 100 people gathered outside Novotel for the counter-protest. (Image: Dolly Carter, Newsquest)

The Grey Friars Road hotel has been the topic of much controversy after it was revealed that the Home Office had approved its takeover to house asylum seekers.

An injunction was sought but the High Court threw out Ipswich Borough Council's request in November last year.

Ipswich Star: President of the Ipswich and District Trades Union Council Margaret Bulaitis.President of the Ipswich and District Trades Union Council Margaret Bulaitis. (Image: Dolly Carter, Newsquest)

President of the Ipswich and District Trades Union Council Margaret Bulaitis said she was "worried" by the division between people on the topic of refugees.

"Protesting against the most vulnerable people in our society is just sick," she said.

Ipswich Star: The group grew as over 100 people gathered to show their solidarity with refugees.The group grew as over 100 people gathered to show their solidarity with refugees. (Image: Dolly Carter, Newsquest)

"Refugees come across the boats because there's no other way to get across - all the other safe routes have been stopped.

"I've been to Afghanistan, I've been to Calais, I've spoken to these people who are risking their lives to come here."

Ipswich Star: Despite the weather, plenty of people joined the protest to show solidarity.Despite the weather, plenty of people joined the protest to show solidarity. (Image: Dolly Carter, Newsquest)

Ms Bulaitis added: "Ipswich has always been a really welcoming place and I hate seeing this attempt to divide us."

Ipswich parliamentary candidate Jack Abbott was also in attendance and emphasised the need for "quiet, respectful protest" to combat "divisive rhetoric and actions".

Ipswich Star: Ipswich parliamentary candidate Jack Abbott with former mayor Glen Chisholm.Ipswich parliamentary candidate Jack Abbott with former mayor Glen Chisholm. (Image: Dolly Carter, Newsquest)

"It's important, when the far-right are here, that we rally together as a town to say that this is not who we are," he said.

"We are a welcoming, diverse and inclusive town and that's the way we want to keep it."

READ MORE: 'More clarity' needed on whether Novotel houses refugees

Ipswich Star: Construction worker Ben Goddard was also in attendance.Construction worker Ben Goddard was also in attendance. (Image: Dolly Carter, Newsquest)

Construction worker Ben Goddard added: "Refugees are our teachers, our NHS workers, our bus drivers, our posties, our carers, our doctors and our lawyers.

"They make up all parts of our community and they should have as fair a chance as any."