Boris Johnson has launched a strong attack on protesters in Bristol as police unsuccessfully use heavy-handed tactics to deter further protests.

National and local leaders have been taken aback by the spirit and cohesion of marchers who vented their fury at government plans to crack down on future peaceful protests.

Police and protesters clashed in the city of Bristol in southwest England on Sunday at a demonstration against a government bill that would give police new powers to restrict protests.

In a controversial move rich with political symbolism the UK's prosecuting authority has decided to charge four people over the toppling of the statue of notorious 17th century slave trader Edward Colston.