Campaigners fight forced removal of asylum seekers

At very short notice, in some cases barely a week - over the Xmas period when most support and advice networks were closed - they had been informed by post that they were being moved to Cardiff.

They had no choice. Some had been here for nine years or more. They were only allowed to take two suitcases, only enough food for the journey and if they did not go they lost all support.

This is a shockingly cruel way to treat people who are here lawfully and who have already suffered so much.

Everyone affected is following the requirements of asylum legislation. Despite not having the right to work and support themselves as they would prefer to do, these people are trying to learn English and become part of the community as best they can.

A man from Darfur due to travel two days later to Liverpool for an appointment to lodge fresh evidence to support his claim, now that the Home Office has publicly acknowledged that Darfur is dangerous.

A man from Somalia has won his case in court but has to rely on provided accommodation while he waits for the official confirmation to come through from the Home Office.

A man from Iran who has been here for nine years, was attending three courses at the City of Bristol College. Now he has lost all this educational opportunity. What a terrible waste!

There was deep snow so many people couldn't make it, and many assumed the removal would be cancelled. However, even though the Bristol buses weren't running at that time in the morning, the coach for Cardiff turned up.

Asylum seekers were arriving, some with cases, some just with bags, one man carrying his belongings in a black plastic bin liner. There were 50 friends and supporters to show their solidarity.

All those being removed were men, some who had lived in Bristol for many years, some leaving behind: wives, partners and children. Some had worked and paid taxes - one for 6 years before he had suddenly had his employment rights taken away; one who was receiving regular and essential hospital treatment.

No one seemed to be in charge apart from the bus driver who checked people's papers. We queried some of the cases by phoning up MP Kerry McCarthy's staff who advised some not to go.

In response to previous messages, both Kerry McCarthy and MP Stephen Williams had expressed concern to the UK Border Agency and challenged the reasons for the removal. Their support is appreciated but it was a shame that they were not officially represented to witness what is being done in our name.

Probably 12 people went on the coach in the end. Our presence seemed to make a difference, partially lifting the asylum seeker's spirits and restoring some dignity. We gave them details of Cardiff support groups and phone numbers.

Many of us put up some passive resistance, with snow sculptures and linking arms, singing and chanting. The police presence increased and we were removed!!

The BBC were there the whole time filming and the report was on the radio and TV.

We will continue to protest and express our concern.

Those who carried out this removal should be held to account and there should be no further removals. The people who were removed should be allowed to return to Bristol.