WORKMEN have started repairs on St Helens Town Hall's roof this morning as the council counts the cost of Saturday's one man protest. 

The roof was left damaged following the demonstration, which started before 7am and lasted for four hours. It led to large numbers of emergency services gathering around Victoria Square.

Some onlookers alleged roof tiles were hurled from the building as police and fire crews surrounded the scene.

The protestor unfurled a banner that appeared to read: "Beware of the police state" and appeared to shout derogatory remarks about the police as large crowds looked on.

Police negotiators were on the scene and the stand off came to a conclusion at about 11am.

Merseyside Police later confirmed that a man had been arrested on suspicion of criminal damage.

More to follow