HUNDREDS people attended today's Black Lives Matter protest in Stroud.

Organiser Polly Stratton estimated that 300 demonstrators took part in the peaceful protest outside the Sub Rooms this afternoon.

It was the third demonstration in Stroud so far, held in solidarity with protests in the US.

"It was extraordinary," said Polly.

"We've gone from eight people on the first day, to over a hundred on the second, and around three hundred today."

The final demonstration is taking place tomorrow, and Polly said she is expecting a much bigger turnout for it.

"The police approved of how the way been demonstrating, using social distancing and masks," she said.

"And they have given permission for us to protest in the streets tomorrow.

"So we'll be chalking social distancing marks right up the road.

"We'll also be giving out masks to anybody who comes along and doesn't have one."

The protests are part of a campaign against police brutality and in support of the fight for racial equality and justice.

Protests started after George Floyd, an African-American in the US, was killed after Minneapolis officer Derek Chauvin held his knee to Mr Floyd's neck for eight minutes and 46 seconds.

This was despite Mr Floyd's pleas for his life and repeatedly saying 'I can't breathe'.

Stroud protestors kneeled, in silence, for eight minutes and 45 seconds again this afternoon, the same length of time that Officer Chauvin knelt on George Floyd’s neck, killing him.

The fourth and final protest is planned outside the Sub Rooms tomorrow (Saturday) at 1pm.

Everyone is welcome to attend, but anyone joining in is asked to observe social distancing measures and to wear a mask.

Minneapolis police officer, Chauvin has been charged with second degree murder.

The other three officers involved in the incident face counts of aiding and abetting murder.

Mr Floyd's is one of many cases which have ignited the Black Lives Matter movement.