ANTI-abortion campaigners have been demonstrating on the streets in silent vigil to mark the 35th anniversary of the implementation of the Abortion Act.
Supporters of the Society for the Protection of Unborn Children formed human chains, standing at intervals with placards in Middlesbrough and Stockton at the weekend.
Mike Hutchinson, the group's area organiser, said more than six million foetuses have been aborted in UK hospitals and clinics since the Abortion Act came into being, with 500 abortions carried out every day,
He said: "We are not here to condemn people, just to give a message - to make people aware, so they consider the issue.''
Up to 20 people held placards, some of them bearing a helpline number - 0845-603 8501.
"We have had a mixed reaction,'' said Mr Hutchinson. "Some are opposed to us, but quite a lot of people are giving us the thumbs up sign. Bus and car drivers are tooting their horns in support of us.''
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