Hundreds protest against Thailand coup

Hundreds of people marked the six-month anniversary of Thailand's coup with a protest today demanding the quick restoration of democracy in the south-east Asian country.

Protesters shouted "coup makers get out" as they marched in Bangkok for the second consecutive night ahead of tomorrow's six-month anniversary of the September 19 coup that ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

Demonstrators called for the resignation of the interim government that was installed by the military coup leaders and demanded elections be held immediately.

The government of interim Prime Minister Surayud Chulanont has vowed to step down after elections scheduled for the end of the year.

Protesters marched from a Bangkok park, Sanam Luang, to the home of the Thai king's chief adviser, Prem Tinsulanonda, but were blocked from approaching the residence by police.

The gathering ended peacefully after a few hours.

Thaksin was toppled following months of mass street protests, with critics accusing him of massive corruption and abuse of power.