Police arrest 14 at 'fracking' site

Police statement: Around 60 protesters gathered at the Cuadrilla site in London Road, Balcombe today. Some had moved a tree across the entrance to the site and were blocking access. Police liaison officers spoke to those at the site and negotiated with them to move from the access.

However when that didn't happen, 14 people were arrested, five for for causing danger to road users, and nine for section 241 of the Trade Union Labour Relations act for attempting to stop drivers and other workers from accessing the site. All the arrests have been made peacefully.

Superintendent Steve Whitton said: "Sussex Police fully supports the right to demonstrate peacefully and within the law and also facilitate the contractors to carry out their business. Our aim is to provide a safe and secure environment for protesters, residents and the contractors."