A CAERPHILLY councillor was injured on the weekend during a protest march in London against the Israeli attacks on Gaza.

Cllr Ray Davies, 79, alleged he was assaulted by riot police and he intends to make an official complaint to the Metropolitan Police.

A spokesman for the force said they were unable to comment as they awaited the complaint.

The lifelong peace campaigner from Bedwas was among 100,000 people - including a contingent from Newport - taking part in Saturday's march.

Cllr Davies, vice-chairman of CND Cymru, said shoes were thrown in a symbolic gesture by some in the crowd when they reached the Israeli Embassy.

He said the police claimed the shoes were aimed at them and began to "lash out" at the crowd.

Cllr Davies said he tried to negotiate between the protestors and the police and asked to be allowed to deliver a letter to the Israeli ambassador calling for a ceasefire in Gaze.

He alleged riot police shouted obscenities at him.

Scuffles broke out and Cllr Davies, at the front of the march, was unable to get away.

He claimed he suffered head injuries, cuts and concussion after being assaulted by two officers.

Cllr Davies said police medics wanted to take him to hospital but he decided to go home and later received treatment at the University Hospital of Wales.

Yesterday, he told the Argus he was still feeling a "bit groggy".

He said he had complained about the incident to an inspector and intended to make an official complaint but was unable to identify any of the officers as the riot gear hid their faces.

A statement from the Met said 24 arrests were made. All were bailed pending further enquiries.

Three officers required hospital treatment and a further 20 "walking wounded" required treatment at the scene.