A Brighton man who took part in peace protests at an air base where US B52 bombers were stationed has been fined.

Michael Heyman, 27, of Bedford Place, Brighton, admitted having wire-cutters with intent to damage the base's fence on January 26.

Heyman was arrested by officers at Gate 13 of RAF Fairford before the jets had arrived to prepare for the war on Iraq.

His barrister, Jeremy Chipperfield, said Heyman was demonstrating against the use of B-52 planes for an attack which he believed was "violent, unjustified and immoral".

Mr Chipperfield said: "This motivation was not based on greed or desire for personal wealth."

In sentencing Judge Jamie Tabor QC told Heyman: "You wished, as you were entitled to, to object to what you thought was an immoral war."

Heyman was fined £50 and ordered to pay £50 costs.

Six other peace protesters involved in the demonstration appeared before Gloucester Crown Court yesterday.