POLICE have stepped up security around RAF Fairford as more warplanes fly into the base from the United States.

There are thought to be 14 giant B52 bombers in place at the US base.

But Internet-based plane-spotters have reported more aircraft en route.

Base spokesman Lieutenant Rickardo Bodden has confirmed that more planes are on their way but refused to discuss details.

Following the arrival of the bombers, Gloucestershire police have invoked powers under the 1994 Criminal Justice Act to stop and search anyone within a mile's radius of the Fairford perimeter fence.

Police spokesman Steve Partridge said: "The decision was taken after military aircraft began arriving at the base."

Despite the increased security, on Tuesday a woman peace protester climbed over the fence and spent two hours underneath a B52.

Lindis Percy, 61, from Hull, was questioned by police on suspicion of aggravated trespass.

Protesters from Swindon Stop the War Group have said they intend to return to Fairford at the weekend to demonstrate against the US presence.

Spokesman Andy Newman said: "There should be a protest organised by CND this Sunday and we will be planning to support that from Swindon particularly now the bombers are there.

"It seems like a huge escalation. It looks like they could only be a few days away from war.

"I think a lot of people from Swindon will want to go up there.

"I think what the police have done is incredibly high-handed they are trying to railroad this through regardless of whatever anyone thinks."

On February 23, a group of 500 demonstrators marched to the front gate of RAF Fairford.

There were 13 arrests after a group of protesters pulled down the front fence and surged into the base.

A small group of peace protesters continue to maintain a 24-hour vigil outside the gate of RAF Fairford and at the peace camp, which is now based at the nearby Axe and Compass Pub.

Camp member Jill Chadwick, from Stroud, said: "We have been doing a round-the-clock watch of planes coming in since Sunday morning and we are continuing to do that. We are appalled at this blatant warmongering."

In addition to the B52 bombers, the last few days have seen four U-2 spyplanes and a number of C-17 transport aircraft arrive at RAF Fairford.