Anger at Jerry Springer Opera

AROUND 300 Christian campaigners turned out in force to protest at the opening night of Jerry Springer - The Opera in Glasgow.

They packed the entrance to the King's Theatre and lined the pavement opposite the venue, many brandishing banners and singing hymns.

The protest was led by the Christian Voice organisation. Stephen Green, the group's national director, joined protesters in Glasgow last night.

He said: "It's really encouraging to see so many local Christians here."

The satirical opera has courted controversy since it was screened by BBC2 in January 2005.

The BBC received 55,000 complaints ahead of its broadcast.

Frances Coburn, from Pollok, who was among the protesters, described the stage performance as "evil".

However, Chris Denton, from the west end, who was going to watch the show, hit out at the campaigners. He said: "I don't like our freedom of speech being at threat by extremists."

A spokesman for the show said organisers were delighted to have opened in Glasgow last night.

He added: "We are aware there was a minor protest before the show started. However, this did not affect the performance."

Police officers monitored the protest. A spokeswoman said: "It was a peaceful demonstration and there were no arrests."