Campaigners clash over gay issues

The Christian activists handed out leaflets to shoppers

Christian anti-gay campaigners have clashed with pro-gay rights group in Bournemouth.

Up to 30 preachers gathered in memory of Bournemouth preacher Harry Hammond who was convicted of harassment for waving calling homosexuality a sin.

They were opposed by around 200 members of the town's gay community and members of the group, Bourne Free.

A Bourne Free spokesman later called the preachers' actions "sad", but there were no arrests.

'Escape route'

This was the third anniversary of the arrest of Mr Hammond, who has since died.

A spokesperson for Christian Voice said: "It is a day to show we are not afraid to stand up and be counted for the name of Christ.

"Homosexuals in particular must know that they do not have to 'stay gay' and that in Jesus there is an escape route from the lifestyle that is destroying them."

Rev Dwayne Morgan of Bournemouth's Metropolitan Community Church was one of the organisers of Bourne Free.

"We think it's very sad that people want to come out and say God doesn't love them as they are," he said.

"All people, including gay and lesbian people are created by God and loved by God."