Scuffles at Spanish protest over Pope's visit

Thousands of people rallied in the Spanish capital Madrid on Wednesday to protest at the cost of a visit by Pope Benedict XVI.

A number of the demonstrators clashed with police after marching to the central Sol square chanting slogans.

The pontiff will arrive at Madrid's Barajas airport on Thursday morning and later hold meetings with young people at World Youth Day 2011.

The trip comes at a time of economic hardship in Spain, although organisers say the pilgrimage is self-funded.