Thousands protest against Germany virus curbs

Thousands of people in the German capital Berlin are taking part in a protest against the country's coronavirus restrictions.

The demonstrators say the measures, including the wearing of facemasks, violate their rights and freedoms.

Germany has been less badly affected by the pandemic than some European countries, but cases are starting to rise again.

On Friday it recorded more than 900 new cases and seven deaths.

Official estimates say at least 15,000 people are taking part in the protests, which is being called "The Day of Freedom".

Protesters held up banners featuring such slogans as "Corona, false alarm", "We are being forced to wear a muzzle".

The BBC's Damian McGuinness in Berlin says some are from the far right and some are conspiracy theorists who do not believe Covid-19 exists, but others are ordinary people who simply object to the government's approach to the pandemic.