Eight demonstrators have been arrested and 11 people injured in clashes between riot police and protesters in Madrid opposed to a visit by the Pope.

The Pope is due to arrive in Madrid today for a four-day visit to celebrate World Youth Day, with thousands of people preparing to protest against his visit.

A YOUNG chemistry student working as a volunteer on preparations for a visit by the Pope to Spain has been arrested on suspicion of planning a gas attack against protesters opposed to the pontiff’s stay.