The opening of a giant Tesco store was marred by arrests as scuffles erupted with eco protesters.

Police and security moved in after one activist chained himself around the neck to a trolley.

Dozens of shoppers and workmen looked on as the drama unfolded at Tesco Extra, off New Road, West Durrington, Worthing.

Two hours earlier, the unveiling of the multi-million pound store had passed off without incident.

But at 10am seven protesters from nearby Titnore Woods, an area of ancient woodland, unfurled a banner bearing the slogan “Smash Tesco” outside the main entrance.

Police told the demonstrators they were trespassing, adding: “You are not welcome on this site.”

A spokesman for Sussex Police said protesters were removed from the site by Tesco security by 10.45am and left the vicinity before midday.

James Wiggam, spokesman for Tesco, said the new store did not affect the ancient woods, which protesters claim Tesco threatens.

During the new store’s construction four trees were felled but 100 mature specimens were being planted.

Mr Wiggam said: “It is private property. People are entitled to protest if they wish to. We won't stop them from doing that. All we would ask is that it isn't to the detriment of people going about their daily business.”

More than 120 people had queued outside Tesco before the doors slid open at 8am.

A 32-year-old man from Patching, near Worthing, was arrested on suspicion of affray, and a 28-year-old man from London was arrested on suspicion for a public order offence.