Protest to mark war anniversary

Tens of thousands are expected to take part in a march through London tomorrow, marking the first anniversary of the start of the Iraq war.

The demonstration - part of an international day of protest in 100 different cities - will see 1,500 black balloons released to symbolise those killed in the conflict.

Demonstrators will meet in Hyde Park at noon to march to Trafalgar Square where celebrities are due to give speeches and perform.

A spokesman for march organisers Stop The War Coalition said today: "It is part of an international day of demonstrations in cities around the world.

"The commissioner for the Metropolitan Police, Sir John Stevens, now says a terrorist attack on London is inevitable and we think this is in part connected to the war on terror.

"If you go to Iraq and kill thousands of people and imprison thousands of others for nothing you create the climate for further terror attacks. We don't believe there were any proven links between al Qaeda and the Iraqi regime but, because of the invasion of Iraq, al Qaeda now operates freely in that country." The demonstrators will set off from Hyde Park at 1pm and will arrive in Trafalgar Square at around 2.30pm.

Police said roads will be closed in and around Hyde Park, Park Lane, Piccadilly and Trafalgar Square, with diversions in place.