Four people were arrested for public nuisance and aggravated trespass offences today following protests against public sector cuts.

A woman and three men were arrested in Brighton at around 3.30pm.

Superintendent Steve Whitton from Brighton and Hove Command Team said: “Sometime after the large peaceful demonstration had taken place a group of approximately 25 were responsible for an assault against staff in Churchill Square and disruption within Boots and Barclays Bank which prevented and obstructed staff and customers.

“This behaviour went beyond peaceful demonstrating and significantly infringed upon the rights of other members of the community who would expect us to act.

“We consider that this action was completely unrelated to the earlier demonstration and conducted by individuals who have little regard for the rights of others in the city.

"We were glad that the earlier demonstration passed off peacefully and without protracted disruption, bearing in mind the extraordinary number of persons marching.

“I would also like to thank the organisers for their cooperation while the policing operation was being planned.”

It is thought around 3,500 people took part in today's protest.