PEACE protesters camped at RAF Fairford fell into a sombre mood as they watched bombs arrive at the air base.

RAF Fairford is currently home to 14 B-52 bombers.

One of the protesters was Cherry Lewis, 44, of Wroughton.

She said: "It seems unreal. We are just sitting here in the sunshine and you look around to see these enormous planes which are likely to fly any minute.

"It is very frightening. There has been a lot going on here. There are Land Rovers driving around and a helicopter seems to be keeping an eye on the perimeter."

Another demonstrator from Swindon, Jane Middlebrook, 50, said: "I am not against all wars, just this one. I don't see any justification for it and I feel very sad it is going ahead."

Steve Wilson, 28, of Rodbourne, was visiting the peace camp with his two children, Ethan, three, and Jemma, 15 months.

"War is inevitable but I don't want it," he said. "I don't want my children to know war, but there is not a lot we can do. It looks like Bush has got his way."

David Griffiths, from Stroud, said: "It is a sad day, it shouldn't be happening. It is crazy to be at war. The British don't want it yet it is going ahead."

Recent protests at the base have led to dozens of arrests as demonstrators have tried to gain access to the site.

On February 23 there were 13 arrests after protesters pulled down the front gate with ropes and surged into the base, clashing with police.

On March 9 there were 19 arrests when a group cut through the perimeter fence of the airbase. And the largest ever demonstration is due to take place on Saturday when thousands of protesters are expected to arrive at the base.

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