Squatters barricaded themselves into a disused church to stop police evicting them.

Officers and bailiffs wanted to remove 25 people living in the former Methodist Church in London Road, Brighton.

But the squatters, who moved into the building on April 11, barred the doors to prevent officers gaining entry.

Last night the squatters, who call themselves the 88 London Road Community, said they intend to stay in the old church.

One told The Argus: "We are protesting against the illegal evictions of squatter communities elsewhere in the city from disused properties."

The squatters say they have converted the building into a community centre, offering free food, cinema nights and a children's nursery.

One, speaking on behalf of the community, said: "This building has been left empty and unused for four years.

"As well as making this our home, we are here to generate a positive comfortable space that is independent and self managed, where people can be creative, share information and resources while building a stronger and more connected community."

While bailiffs tried to gain entry, some squatters stood on the building's roof and others attached banners to the front of the old church.

People living in nearby London Terrace said they are regularly disturbed by late-night noise.

One woman said: "I thought I was going to have a breakdown because of the music. We have had enough of it."

Police stood guard while bailiffs tried to carry out their eviction notice but later a police spokeswoman said: "On the grounds of public safety, bailiffs do not intend to enforce the court order today."

Three planning applications have been submitted to Brighton and Hove City Council to demolish the old church and build flats.

A Methodist Church spokesman said: "We still own the building but no decision as to the long term use has been made.

"A thing that is under consideration is to turn it into flats and a community centre. As an institution and as individuals we have a great concern about the issue of homelessness.

"Homlessness is an important concern for us but our immediate concern is for the safety of everyone involved, both the people inside and those trying to deal with the situation."