FOURTEEN people have been arrested after masked protesters clashed in Brighton.

A far right march and a larger counter march by local residents saw Brighton city centre brought to a standstill yesterday morning.

Sussex Police hailed their operation to control the two opposing groups as a success.

Fourteen masked protesters, arrested at the start of proceedings yesterday, are being questioned by police over an alleged assault in Ship Street.

Far right groups The South Coast Resistance and The Pie and Mash Squad organised the No More Refugees march but were met with a larger counter demonstration Stop the March for England of around 300 protesters.

The 300-strong crowd marched through the city centre before it finished at Brighton railway station at about 12.30pm although police continued to monitor a number of protestors as they dispersed in small groups throughout the afternoon.

Chief Superintendent Nev Kemp said: "We made 14 arrests within 10 minutes of being called to an incident this morning, and I think that reflects our approach towards demonstrations – we are always happy to facilitate peaceful protests, but incidents of disorder and criminal activity will not be tolerated.

"We have had a lot of positive feedback from members of the public and consider the operation a success. Despite the clear intent of some taking part – to commit offences and create disorder – we have had no reported injuries or significant damage or disorder.”

"I would like to thank the public for their support and also my officers and staff who worked hard over several hours to keep the people of Brighton and Hove safe.”