PROTESTORS are gathering in Bournemouth Square calling on Libyan leader Colonel Muammar Gaddafi to step down.

Around 100 people, holding placards and chanting "Down with Gaddafi", are joining in the Libyan's calls for an end to his 42 year rule.

The protest in Bournemouth follow reports from Libya of clashes between Libyan security forces and protestors calling for freedom.

Foreigners are said to be fleeing the country. In the last few hours Gaddafi has gone on television to deny reports that he had fled the capital, Tripoli.

Bournemouth cafe owner Diab Alhmeel organised the march down Old Christchurch Road into the square.

Libyan born Mr Alhmeel, who has lived in Bournemouth for 12 years, said: "We want an end to the killings and to see Gaddafi out as soon as possible.

"This is a total revolution inside and out. Events in Egypt have helped by giving us a bit of hope, but first and foremost this is about freedom."