Protesters were confronted by police in riot gear as they staged a demonstration against hundreds of trees being cut down to make way for houses.

Onlookers said more than 60 officers, some with protective shields, turned up to the march near Titnore Wood in Durrington, Worthing, on Saturday.

Campaigners organised the "funeral for democracy" following the decision to cut down 210 trees as part of plans to build 850 homes.

Titnore Wood has been designated a Site of Nature Conservation Importance containing oak, ash, birch and willow trees.

An onlooker said: "It was a very peaceful demonstration but the police were totally excessive.

"There must have been between 60 and 70 police officers there, but there were less than half that number of protesters. Some of the officers were in riot gear and their presence was totally over the top."

Members of Worthing Borough Council's development committee have been criticised by residents for approving the scheme on 99 acres of land east of Titnore Lane and north of Fulbeck Avenue.

The march left Northbrook College roundabout at the junction of Titnore Lane and the A259, attracting dozens of supporters.

Members of the Protect Our Woodland group clashed with councillors and developers earlier this year at rallies against the development, a joint venture between Heron Group, Persimmon Homes and Bryant Homes, part of Taylor Woodrow.

Protesters burnt a dummy of John Prescott in Titnore Lane.

The plans include 220 low-cost homes and developers have also promised to donate £1.2 million towards a community centre, swimming pool and library.

Ann Sayers, Conservative councillor for Durrington, said: "The council has to build so many thousands of homes by a certain date and this development is part of that.

"There is a Government target we have to meet and, while we understand people's concerns, we have pledged to build the best development we can."