Fifty-three people were today arrested following a 200-strong protest organised by Smash EDO.

The majority of the people have been arrested on suspicion of breaching the peace. However, others have been arrested on suspicion of possessing weapons and assault.

Two protesters suffered injuries following the all-day event which took place in Brighton and caused traffic chaos in the London Road and Lewes Road areas.

Tonight Chief Superintendent Graham Bartlett, Brighton and Hove District Commander, said the cost of policing the protest would run into six figures.

He said: "The exact costs for the operation are still being collated, but they will run into six figures.

“Financial pressures are tough, but people want and expect us to prevent crime and disorder. Additional officers had to be used to ensure policing continued as usual across the county, although numbers were reduced whenever possible throughout the day to reduce costs.”

This evening a small number of additional officers remain in Brighton in case further trouble breaks out.