POLICE say demonstrators at Climate Camp tried to physically remove officers from the site last night.

A statement released to the Hillingdon Times said: "At approximately 7.15pm on August 14, officers from the Forward Intelligence Team who were patroling the camp were confronted by demonstators who attempted to physically remove them from the site.

"Colleagues were called in to support them and maintain public order.

"The policing team was re-established on site shortly afterwards.

"The MPS has stated from the outset that we wish to facilitate lawful protest. Our police presence continues on site at the request of the land owner."

But a spokesman for the camp said police went onto the site without warning, carrying cans of what appeared to be CS gas.

Alice Coterley, one of the campers, said: "There is no reason for so many officers to come on site when things are completely calm and peaceful. This was a clear attempt to provoke us. Yet not one of us rose to the bait. This is a peaceful protest."