Police have been warned that extremists could start a campaign of violence in North and East Yorkshire as hunger striker Barry Horne nears death.

Special Branch officers in the region, together with forces nationwide, have been put on standby by Scotland Yard.

They have been told that Horne's protest could result in increased activity from animal rights extremists, creating public disorder and damage to property.

A Scotland Yard spokesman said: "We are aware of Mr Horne's decision to go on hunger strike and there has been a circular issued to Special Branch staff.

"Officers are concerned that the situation may be exploited in the form of public disturbance or vandalism."

Horne, 46, remains close to death in an intensive care bed in York District Hospital today.

He was jailed at Full Sutton Prison for 18 years following a two-year arson campaign, has now refused food for 52 days.

He wants the Government to set up a Royal Commission on animal experiments.

In York, a vigil was launched outside York District Hospital by banner-wielding protesters.

They moved off the site last night, but returned this morning.

Others have started a hunger strike outside Tony Blair's home in County Durham, threatening to fast for the same number of hours as the days that Horne has been on hunger strike.

Yesterday an animal rights activist appeared at Bow Street Magistrates Court, London, after a protest outside Downing Street in support of Horne. Clare Persey, 28, is said to have locked her head inside a bicycle lock attached to a vehicle's steering wheel outside the street's security gates. Persey was part of a demonstration by 30 people as the Queen opened Parliament.

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