G20 Protesters Attack RBS Bank

Riot police have been forced to take action as angry G20 summit protesters have forced their way inside an RBS office in London as violent clashes escalate.

Windows were smashed at the branch and a number of demonstrators attempted to force their way through lines of officers who hit back with batons.

The bailed-out bank was previously known to be a target of anti-capitalist groups in advance of the protests, it was reported.

A police officer was also injured during the scuffles, as one of the crowd lashed out with a large pole during the large-scale protests ahead of the summit of world leaders.

Around 2,500 officers are taking part in the operation to secure the G20. Even more are on hand to protect and escort world leaders and international officials to and from the summit.

At the junction of Threadneedle Street and Bartholomew Lane, in the capital, men and women wearing masks and hoods tried to breach lines in attempts to get through to the climate camp in nearby Bishopsgate.

However, they were beaten back by police, who were pelted with fruit, flour and empty beer cans.

According to Scotland Yard around 4,000 people had gathered outside the Bank of England and cordons had been placed in response to "increased levels of violence".

A spokesman said: "There have been a number of missiles thrown at officers and a number of surges at the police cordons, and increasing levels of violence towards police.

"Cordons have put in place to maintain safety and control the crowd."

Eleven people - travelling in a renovated armoured personnel carrier - had also been arrested on suspicion of possessing police uniforms.

World leaders are gathering in London for the G20 summit to discuss methods of resolving the financial crisis.

Bilateral talks are to be held this afternoon to discuss the final details of proposed reform plans.

Among the world leader's gathered at the event is US president Barack Obama who has spoken of a "sense of urgency" needed to confront the global economic crisis. Mr Obama met British Prime Minister Gordon Brown ahead of the talks at Downing Street.

(JM/BMcC)