A WOMAN took her protest about a housing and benefits problem to the steps of Poole Civic Centre today.

She set up camp with a small tent at the top of the steps outside the main doors, taping pieces of card outlining her grievances on to the wall.

The peaceful protest was allowed to continue by Borough of Poole while officers sought to resolve the situation.

Poole council leader Cllr Elaine Atkinson said: “There is currently a lady staging a peaceful protest on the steps outside the Civic Centre. She has been there since Tuesday evening and we have been allowing her access to the facilities during the day and providing her with water.

“We are in the process of assessing her circumstances and are offering her advice regarding the options available to her. We have also referred her to our rough sleeper outreach services. We will be seeking a court order to remove her from the civic centre as the protest, although peaceful, does trespass on private property and might be intimidating for other visitors.”