Thai king urges mutual support for sake of the country

Nearly two weeks of anti-government protests in Thailand have been halted as King Bhumibol Adulyadej celebrates his birthday.

Large crowds gathered to hear King Bhumibol's traditional birthday message where he urged people to support each other for the sake of the country.

The celebrations came in stark contrast to the street clashes between police and protesters calling on Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra to step down.

Jonathan Head reports from Bangkok.