Protests in London

The protests were up and running yesterday in London.

As Gordon Brown, Barack Obama and the other world leaders tucked into fancy food and champagne, the protesters and police clashed violently.

The G20 meeting taking place in London is essential if the world powers are going to resolve the current economic crisis. But you just can't beat a bit of old fashioned protesting can you?

The financial district was packed full of what my friend loves to call 'soap dodgers'. Some wore masks and costumes, but plenty were clearly happy to have their faces seen. The walls were plastered with graffiti, flour and eggs were thrown and punches were exchanged.

The police who were clearly aware that the world's media had their cameras pointed at them, were left in an unenviable position. Whether they agree with the subject of the protests or not, their job is to maintain order. Without doubt many of the officers on duty were relishing the chance to use their batons. All those months of training must generate a desire to taste a little bit of violence.

Blood was certainly spilled. When the protesters made a rush to push inside the RBS building, the police responded with force. Zero tolerance indeed.

Yet, many people in the area were there to just observe. The curiosity of the public added to the numbers. The problem came in that once you were in the vicinity, it was outright impossible to get out. Perimeters were set up and moving anywhere became incredibly difficult.

Kate Nash and Russell Brand were amongst the celebrities trying to get their faces noticed. Nothing like a protest to aid the PR.

But the underlying feel was that the British certainly didn't want to embarrass themselves in front of the new President. If something had happened the repercussions would have been immense. Obama, today speaking at the Excel Centre in East London, will have security to the maximum. He is a likeable lad so far, so let's see what he can do first before we make a mess.

Bankers beware though. The public wants more blood. The media has generated a campaign of anger against you, so use caution until the mood has calmed.