UPDATE: Police have arrested nine protesters who were taking part in a vegan march through Brighton. 

Hundreds of vegans were taking part in the March for Animals which started at Preston Park at midday.

The group them made their way through the city centre. Along the seafront and to Brunswick Square, Hove, before a group were arrested at Waitrose in Western Road, at about 5pm. 

SussexPolice said: " Officers were called to Waitrose in Western Road to reports of a large group people being involved in an animal rights protest just before 5pm.

"Police provided an immediate response which result in nine members of the group being arrested for failing to provide their names or addresses. All nine remain in custody and the investigation remains ongoing."

Chief Superintendent Lisa Bell, Command of the operation said:

“We worked with the supermarket staff and organisers to facilitate peaceful protests that balance the rights of those to protest without disproportionately affecting the rights of the general public.

“However disruptive, criminal and intimidating behaviour will not be tolerated and we will use our police powers to act on this.”

The March for Animals started at Preston Park just after 12.30. The group - made up of around 300 protesters flanked by police - passed the Palace Pier at 1.30pm and are currently heading along the seafront to Brunswick Square.

As thousands of day trippers head to the seafront, traffic is almost stationary on the A23 into the city centre, Grand Parade and along the seafront. 

The march's organiser and founder, who would only give his name as Marc, told The Argus: "We are marching in solidarity and to represent the animals. "We want the public to take animal rights seriously.

"Animals are being systematically abused all over the world."