Anti-capitalist protesters from Bradford today told how they feared for their lives after becoming caught up in the violence in Genoa.

A man was shot dead by police and almost 100 people were arrested at the weekend as thousands of people joined forces to rally at the G8 Summit.

Clashes broke out among violent protesters and police as the Italian city was sealed off while the world's leaders discussed everything from climate change to third world poverty.

Adam Deacon, pictured, 25, of Buttershaw, said he had never been so terrified in his life when police officers showered marchers, including himself, with tear gas.

"I wanted to be a part of a demonstration against globalisation and capitalism and to show my support along with the other protesters," he said.

"I sympathise with the people of the Third World and wanted to use what little rights we have remaining to help others.

"But I have never been so terrified in all my life after seeing innocent people subjected to beatings and violence from the police who were so intimidating."

Adam, a Bradford Council worker, student and member of Globalise Resistance and the Socialist Workers Party, said when he arrived in Genoa the venue where he was meant to be staying had been barricaded by police.

"We were forced to walk with our luggage and did not eat for the whole weekend," he claimed.

"I even heard gun shots.

"All I want is for people across the world to work together for equality.

"I feel like I know what it is like now to have everyone against you and it only makes you more determined."

Adam denied being involved in any violence.

Three coaches of Globalise Resistance members had travelled to Italy.

An undercover national newspaper reporter who travelled on one of the coaches and was later beaten up by police during the protests, claimed some of those on the bus had talked about "going into battle" and had described police as "scumbags" and said "they deserved everything they got".

David Ramsden, 44, of Bradford, was also caught up in the action.

He said he was subjected to discrimination and violence at the hands of the police.

"To be a part of something like this gives you the feeling that ordinary people can change things," he said.

"But I saw brutality and confrontation that frightened me.

"Getting tear gassed is a nasty experience and at one point I thought I was going to die. I didn't even know if I was going to be hit with batons because I could not see.

"It is a shame that when people are striving to help others they get condemned themselves."

One couple from Burley-in-Wharfedale, Mary and John Wood, were fortunate enough to stay clear of the rioting.

The pair, both Christian Aid Workers and campaigning on behalf of Drop the Debt, had been warned of the violence and made their way to a church vigil at San Antonnio at Boccadaffe, on the outskirts of Genoa.

"We met with Christian priests and people from across the world," said Mrs Wood, 56.

"It was very good humoured.

"We have seen all of these terrible images but that is not the whole picture.

"We were able to sit among other protesters and show our support in a peaceful way."

Mr Wood, 58, said he was pleased to see people of all ages from countries across the world.

"It was a huge experience," he said.