11:56pm UK, Monday July 04, 2005

Anti-globalisation protesters have brought the centre of Edinburgh to a standstill - two days ahead of the G8 summit.

180 edinburgh G8 protests police clash

Police clashed with protesters

There have been angry scenes as they staged demonstrations against capitalism and world poverty.

The demonstrations are only likely to escalate when the summit opens for business on Wednesday.

Around 60 people were arrested - including what police called "key" anarchist suspects who had travelled to Scotland from across Europe.

More than 20 protestors and police officers were injured in more than six hours of running clashes.

Police had stones, staves, bottles and bits of park benches thrown at them.

They condemned organisers of the anti-G8 "carnival" - saying some involved had been bent on causing disruption.

Tom Halpin, Assistant Chief Constable of Lothian & Borders Police, said: "This was not about protest, this was unacceptable and irresponsible behaviour.

"We are facing a hard-core of determined activists, supported by hangers-on."

Police had earlier advised all businesses in the city centre to close and to keep staff temporarily locked inside.

Protester Iona Gorringe said: "One of the sergeants said we were entitled to peaceful demonstration but they barged into the crowd without any reason.

"We've just been hemmed in, we've been detained for hours without any access to water or information."