OVER 30 anti-nuclear activists were slapped in irons yesterday during a blockade of Britain’s “obscene” Trident nuclear base at Faslane.

At least 34 people were arrested at the Scottish naval base for breaching the peace after lying in gateways and covering themselves in red paint.

Workers arriving for their morning shifts were unable to get through the 150-strong protest that blocked the main site entrances from 7am to 1.30pm, being told to go home instead.

Later in the day, 1,000 people demonstrated outside the Ministry of Defence in London, calling on would-be MPs to promise an end to Trident when it comes up for review in 2016.

The Scrap Trident Coalition said the blockade was not only effective but also had a “relaxed, colourful and upbeat vibe.”

A spokesman said: “It has been wonderful to have the presence of people ranging in age from five to over 80, to have a member of our own parliament sitting down with us, and so many others from diverse backgrounds.

“Trident is a hot topic at the general election and this gives us hope that at last we can tackle the British state’s addiction to monstrous and mindless violence.

“We are also aware that even among the workers in the base and the police who attended today there is growing support for removing the weapons of mass destruction stain from our shores.”

Scottish Greens co-convener Patrick Harvie took part in the day’s protest, branding Trident “an obscenity.” The Glasgow MSP said: “Through direct action and through the ballot box we can make the case for the UK to play a new role on the world stage.

“By pursuing peace, a global deal on climate change and ending the arms trade we can stand tall rather than clinging to outdated and dangerous status symbols.”

A Faslane spokesperson said the base’s output was not affected by the events as contingency plans were put in place.

Fashion designer Vivienne Westwood, comedian Frankie Boyle, award-winning band Massive Attack and renowned linguist Noam Chomsky were some of the celebrities calling for the British government to scrap its £100 billion nuclear programme this week.

Campaigners argue that the savings made from cutting Trident would allow for investments in education and the NHS, including the hiring of 150,000 new nurses.

The demonstration outside of the MoD was backed by the support of musicians and spoken word artists, who came together to mark the Global Day of Action Against Military Spending.