ANGRY protestors gathered in the middle of Romsey to voice their disgust at the Government’s plan to shut down Parliament.

Residents of all ages gathered in the Market Place bearing placards saying 'Save democracy and stop the coup'.

The peaceful protest was part a nationwide wave of protests and took place on August 31.

The demonstration saw people from various political parties unite including Romsey and Southampton North MP Caroline Nokes MP.

Rich House, one of the organisers, said: "I was very proud of my town for standing up for democracy. This was a spontaneous and heartfelt expression of abhorrence for those who are deliberately suppressing parliament.

"Supporters of all parties as well as Remainers and Leavers came together with a unified voice."

John Parker, previously Town Mayor of Romsey, said: “While Britain is not prone to coup d’états, Romsey was the scene of one of the minor battles between the Roundheads and the Royalists.

"The essence of British government is the balance between the executive, parliament and the judiciary. We must fight against any erosion of this balance.

"Any step, however small, to diminish the role of our parliamentary system must be resisted.”

Cllr Dorothy Baverstock, who represents Romsey Cupernham on the borough council, said: "I absolutely believe we have got to do what we can. I am staggered, because it all seems so disorganised and when you look at Hong Kong and see how people are standing up and saying what they think. I am so glad people did that on Saturday."

Craig Fletcher, a speaker, added: “It was great to see so many people assemble at such short notice.

"Those of us lucky enough to have democracy must stand up and protect it, otherwise it can so easily be eroded.

"Our mother of Parliaments is the sovereign seat of our democracy. It must not be side-lined as the country faces our biggest crisis in decades.”

Philip Griffiths, a speaker, said: “It was great to see representatives of Romsey's political parties putting their differences aside and coming together to defend our Parliamentary democracy."

The next demonstration will be held in Romsey on September 7 from 10am.