BBC journalist Nicholas Watt chased through streets by anti-lockdown protesters

A BBC journalist was chased and abused at an anti-lockdown protest outside Westminster.

Videos posted on social media show Nicholas Watt, the political editor of BBC Newsnight, being followed by a large group of protesters chanting "traitor" and "scum".

One can be heard shouting: "Why have you reported that lockdowns are legal? How can it be legal to lock people in their houses?"

The aggressive group forced Mr Watt to turn around and sprint back to safety behind the gates of Downing Street, which were heavily guarded by police due to the protest.

A spokeswoman for BBC News said: "This behaviour is completely unacceptable. All journalists should be able to carry out their work without intimidation or impediment."

The editor of BBC Newsnight, Esme Wren, added: "Harassing and intimidating any journalist is completely unacceptable."

MPs on both sides of the House condemned the scenes. Tory MP Alicia Keanes said: "This is just so utterly wrong. Shame, shame on all those in this video behaving appalling. A baying mob. Nick Watt deserves better. Society deserves better."

Labour's deputy leader Angela Rayner said: "I am horrified by the video of him being abused for doing his job. A free press is integral to our democracy."

SNP MP Gavin Newlands said the individuals who chased Mr Watt were "utter scumbags".

This is a breaking news story, more to follow.