Giulia Gigliotti said she hoped to put pressure on John Denham

Around 30 campaigners staged a 'die-in' protest on Monday outside the gates of Vosper Thornycroft in Woolston, complete with fake blood and battle noises.

The 'die-in' was one of at least 15 separate protests being held across the country.

The protestors say they chose the shipbuilder because Vospers is a major producer of warships and other military equipment.

Large contract

The shipbuilder, which is based in Woolston, Southampton, was recently awarded a large defence contract in the MOD's new aircraft carrier deal with BAE.

The protestors lay on the ground, simulating death while sounds of battle were played on cassette.

Some drew chalk outlines around their bodies and daubed themselves in red paint.

Vosper Thornycroft is based in Southampton Itchen, the constituency of Home Office Minister John Denham.

Organiser Giulia Gigliotti said they wanted to put pressure on the MP.

"Our representatives in parliament are not representing our views.

"If they went with popular opinion then we wouldn't have this war."