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Monday, 28 May 2007, 03:16 GMT 04:16 UK

In pictures: Venezuela TV rallies

Protesters face riot police across barricades

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Supporters of Radio Caracas Television (RCTV) took to the streets to vent their anger at President Hugo Chavez's decision to close it.

Police use water cannon in Caracas

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Anger at the closure of the station - Venezuela's most-watched - led to some clashes with police, who turned water cannon on the crowds.

Woman holding RCTV poster on march, 26 May 2007

Woman holding RCTV poster on march, 26 May 2007

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Mr Chavez says his decision was legal, but critics say it is a move to clamp down on the opposition.

RCTV's general manager Marcel Granier at the station, 27 May 2007

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RCTV's general manager Marcel Granier joined the last episode of programme The Interview. Staff vowed to stay overnight.

Demonstrator in RCTV logo at rally, 26 May 2007

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Protesters chanted "This is Venezuela, not Cuba!" and pledged to fight Mr Chavez's decision.

Chavez supporters march in Caracas 27 May 2007

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But Mr Chavez's supporters also took to the streets, and held parties celebrating RCTV's closure.

Chavez supporters in Caracas

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Mr Chavez and his supporters have never forgiven the station for backing a 2002 coup against him.

Bugler outside the RCTV offices on Sunday, 27 May 2007

Bugler outside the RCTV offices on Sunday, 27 May 2007

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The station will be replaced by TVes, a new public service channel backed with $4m of government money.

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