Pro-Palestinian rooftop protest at Leonardo UK in Southampton

Police and other emergency services attended the factory in Millbrook

Pro-Palestinian activists have carried out a rooftop protest at a defence firm in Southampton.

The Palestine Action group said its members scaled the roof of the Leonardo UK factory on First Avenue.

Hampshire police responded alongside fire and ambulance crews shortly before 07:00 GMT. Two men and a woman were arrested on suspicion of aggravated trespass and criminal damage.

Damage to the roof of the building was being assessed, police said.

A Palestinian flag could be seen attached to railings on the roof during the protest.

In a statement, police said "Officers attended with our colleagues from other emergency services to monitor the situation and ensure the safety of those involved.

"We have also been in communication with the owners of the premises.

"Everyone has the right to free speech and peaceful protest however, officers will take necessary action against those who choose to act outside the law."

A Palestinian flag could be seen tied to barriers on the roof of the Leonardo UK factory

Leonardo UK describes itself as "one of biggest suppliers of defence and security equipment" to the Ministry of Defence.

In a statement, it said: "This morning a small group of protesters entered the Leonardo site in Southampton and were removed by police.

"Together with the authorities, we are keeping our people fully informed."

Palestine Action said on social media the factory was targeted as it was producing "weaponry for Israel".

Police said one of the men arrested was 28 years old and from Cambridge, and the woman was 68 and from Norwich. The force said it did not have age or address details for a second man being held.

The Israeli military has been launching air and artillery strikes in response to militant group Hamas' unprecedented assault on Israel on 7 October when hundreds of gunmen infiltrated communities near the Gaza Strip.