Activists arrested after protest attempt at Spanish GP

Eleven activists were arrested after climbing onto a construction crane to protest against the Spanish Formula 1 grand prix in Madrid, according to media reports.

Broadcaster Telemadrid said on Sunday the demonstrators planned to hang a banner on the crane.

The Diario de Madrid newspaper said the group were activists for the environmental organisation Greenpeace.

Madrid's new track was built around a fair and congress facility. It will be partially dismantled after the grand prix.

Local residents also staged peaceful protests in front of the track against the race due to its noise pollution.