A mass demonstration is due to take place today in central Croydon.

Members of action group UK Uncut are protesting in North End over government cuts.

The action will begin from 12pm to 3pm, with the GMB also taking part in protest over the closure of Southern Cross care homes, two of which are in Croydon.

UK Uncut said in a statement on their website: “This is an SOS from the people of Croydon to the world.

“We are under attack! A monstrous coalition of dark forces has descended upon London's biggest borough, intent on ripping out its heart and feeding it to a race of evil vultures known only as ‘The Bankers’.

“They have already destroyed our Arts Centre. Now, they want to close down our youth centres, privatise our libraries, devastate the UK Borders Agency and slash teaching jobs at Croydon College.

“They will never have their fill of human misery. Not satisfied with that, our (appropriately named) Mayday Hospital will be next in line for the vultures as it will have to cut costs by 20 per cent in real terms in order to survive the onslaught.”

The group have said they want the day to be a peaceful protest and do not want anyone to break the law.

It encouraged people to bring placards, dress up and bring instruments, adding “exact targets” of the protest will be revealed later.

The action group have been criticised in the past for their demonstrations, including “occupying” West End shops in March.

•Croydon Guardian reporter Peter Truman will be Tweeting live from the demo. Follow him @petercroydon