Thousands of people have protested in Birmingham against reduced public spending as the Conservative conference got under way in the city.

Speaking at the rally, Mark Serwotka, of the Public and Commercial Services Union, said strikes were “inevitable” to “turn the tide” against the cuts.

West Midlands Police estimated 5,000 to 7,000 people took part in the protest.

Ahead of the conference, Prime Minister David Cameron urged people to keep the cuts in perspective.

When the crowds got as close to the conference venue as they were allowed, they stopped in the road to make as loud a noise as possible.

The two-hour march passed through Lionel Street, Summer Row, Holiday Street, Gas Street and Broad Street.

In a statement, a spokesman for the Conservative party said: “Everybody has the right to peaceful protest.

“Birmingham is a welcoming city for all – regardless of their political views.”

Supt Dave Sturman, commander for the policing of the Conservative Party conference, said: “We are very pleased with the way the march has gone this afternoon.

“The protesters were peaceful and the operation went largely to plan.

“At this stage there have been no arrests and we have received no reports of any criminal offences, such as damage, as a result of the event.”

The event was organised by ‘The Right to Work‘ and the march was headed by PCS members.  Following the event PCS members had the opportunity to share their thoughts with Tory party delegates.

The full BBC article can be viewed here and photos of the event can be viewed here.

Alice Caldwell Rice