In the Greek capital thousands of anti-fascist demonstrators took to the streets in a rally against far-right extremism.

The protest was in response to a planned march by the Greek far-right party Golden Dawn.

Golden Dawn won 17 parliamentary seats in the recent election, but it is unclear if any will be allowed into the chamber as six MPs and the leader of the party are on remand.

The group are accused of creating and participating in a criminal organisation.

Far-right parties from across Europe were invited in a show of solidarity.

Jens Puhse, from the German National Democratic Party (NPD) attended the rally:“We, German nationalists, think that nationalists all over Europe must work together and this is the reason why we are here today to support Golden Dawn.”

Our correspondent Michalis Arampatzoglou in Athens said:

“This is the first time the new government has been asked to control a street demonstration after promising fairer treatment for all protesters. The police presence was discreet. Only a few dozen policemen were on duty to prevent any clashes or confrontations.”