“Hundreds” of protestors stormed a beach in Tenerife surrounding shocked sunseekers as mass tourism demonstrations erupted across Spain, according to reports.
Residents diverted from the expected route to march across Troya Beach, a popular beach on the south of the island.
Footage allegedly showed one couple, of unknown nationality, lying trapped on their beach towel in their swimming costumes as protestors passed by on all sides waving banners.
Other holidaymakers were seen leaving the area as the beach became overwhelmed by irate locals railing against what they see as the impact of tourism on the soaring cost of accomodation.
No violence was reported at the demonstration, where activists carried carried banners including slogans like “Go Home Tourist”.
However, those involved in the march are said to have been taunted and mocked.
Oliver Alayon, a Tenerife hotel worker, said seeing the beach incident and the footage of the couple surrounded by protestors makes her “feel ashamed”.
“It’s not the tourists who come here on holiday that are to blame,” she said, “It’s the fault of those who wear suits and a tie.”
Carlos Diaz said: “The Canarians’ destiny is to destroy everything that puts food on his plate. I hope the demonstrators have a plan.”
Another wrote: “Tourism-phobia and ignorance in its purest state.”
In further criticism of the protestors who decided to surround the beachgoers, Nara Gonzalez, wrote: “We shouldn’t be attacking tourists. I’ve supported the movement for a long time but I definitely don’t support this kind of thing.”
As the protests drew to a close in the Canary Islands Government officials estimated “at least” 8,000 people had taken part.
Organisers of the demos say the number was far higher, with over 7,000 people taking part in Gran Canaria alone.
Simultaneous marches took place in Gran Canaria, Tenerife, La Palma, Fuerteventura, Lanzarote and El Hierro calling for the tourism model to be changed.
Activists claim large tourist numbers are depleting limited natural resources and damaging the environment.
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