Protesters take over former nightclub

PROTESTERS have taken over a former nightclub in Worthing and opened up a "social centre".

The political campaigners, who say they are "non-consumist, non-capitalist", have set up base at 3TO nightclub, Chapel Road, which recently closed after going out of business.

The "autonomous social centre" is being used as a squat by several protesters who are part of anti-G8 movement Shut the G8.

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Banners have been draped across the front of the building, with messages such as "thinking globally, acting locally" and "sort out Teville Gate, sort out evil G8"

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Named 23TOPIA, the centre is open every day to the public and the group members are also campaigning on local issues, including the West Durrington development, ASDA/Worthing College, Tetra masts and Teville Gate.

One member of the group said: "We are mainly here to highlight issues surrounding the G8 and to raise awareness of local issues, too.

"We really want people to come down and use the space and get involved in our campaigns."

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They said they were expecting to be evicted at some point - but plan to stay there until then.

Since moving into the building two weeks ago, the campaigners have cleared rubbish and created a reading room, creative space, caf and a kids' area.

On Saturday, the group held a "multi-coloured swapshop" at Teville Gate, where they had face painting, a balloon machine and stalls with free items. They also decorated the walls with chalk drawings.

A police spokesperson said they were monitoring the building and the fire brigade had carried out safety checks.

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