London: Over half a million people on March 22 joined a mass rally in Hyde Park in London to protest against the war against Iraq – the biggest rally since the US-led invasion began.

Similar demonstrations were held in several other cities, including Bradford and Manchester, Gloucestershire and Yorkshire, reports said.

Despite the whistles and drum beats, the march was smaller and more subdued gathering than the one held in February.

The banners were identical as in the past: "No war in our name. Stop, look, listen."

The day is also being marked by prayers for peace in churches and cathedrals around the country.

A total of 3,500 police officers have been called in to line the route of the London march.

The march was organised by the Stop the War Coalition, the Muslim Association of Britain and others.

PTI