Protesters abseiled onto the roof at Esso's HQ in Surrey

The eleven Greenpeace activists were arrested following demonstrations in Eastleigh, Bitterne, Romsey, Blackfield and Totton - which saw pumps being padlocked and protesters chaining themselves to equipment.

Five of the protesters were stopped at about 0815 GMT in a van near Cadnam, in the Southampton area, and arrested on suspicion of criminal damage and theft.

Another four were arrested in Totton on suspicion of aggravated trespass, while two more were arrested at Blackfield on suspicion of theft.

It is ludicrous to suggest that ExxonMobil is in any way encouraging a potential war in Iraq ExxonMobil spokesman

Greenpeace said Esso supported military action against Saddam Hussein and had committed "environmental crimes", although the firm rejects the accusations.

Around 300 protesters, across the UK, are taking part in the day of action against Esso and its parent company Exxon Mobil Corporation, a spokesman for the environmental group said.

In Surrey, a group of protesters forced the closure of the Esso headquarters - where 1,000 staff normally work.

Esso says about 50 of its petrol stations have been affected by Greenpeace action, although Greenpeace claim around 100 stations have had to close.

Esso acknowledged that, by 0900 GMT, protesters had been to at least 50 of its 1,300 petrol stations across the UK.

"People have every right to express their views but it is ludicrous to suggest that ExxonMobil is in any way encouraging a potential war in Iraq," a spokesman for the firm said.