For me, I came from the North of England and the problem was not and has never been about immigrants coming from Europe, but those who come from the Middle east and other countries surrounding that area.
In fact, immigrants in my area where I lived in the UK have always quite welcome, even those from the Middle East, but there has always been problems with them more than anything.
I think it is visa versa in when it comes to the South and the North.
The Northerners are happy with those from Europe, but not from elsewhere, while the south think the other way round.
I am not too sure if it is fully true as I only stated from what I know and witness.