Two men who admitted violent disorder at an anti-migrant protest have been given suspended prison sentences.

Justin Dixon and Deano Ryan were involved in a demonstration in Eastney, Portsmouth, on 6 September, after about 120 migrants who had crossed the English Channel in a small boat were brought to shore.

Dixon, 50, was recorded on video pushing a large metal gate towards police, while Ryan, 22, was filmed appearing to throw stones.

Judge Daniel Sawyer, sitting at Portsmouth Crown Court, said both men had played a limited role in the disorder, but told Dixon he had come within "a hair's breadth of going to prison".

Dixon, of Cross Way, Havant, was handed an 18-month prison sentence suspended for two years. Ryan, of All Saints Road, Portsmouth, was given 14 months suspended for two years.

Prosecutor Josh Happe said about 200 to 300 people were involved in the protest and that it had "quickly turned into large scale public disorder".

Seven police officers were assaulted and missiles were thrown.

The judge said there was a "general air of hostility and intimidation" at the protest, where some of those demonstrating were wearing masks.

No-one was injured by the gate, which measured 6ft by 20ft, but some officers had to move quickly to get out of its way.

Dixon's barrister, Lucy Linington, said he had attended the protest because "he wanted his voice to be heard", and described his actions as a "moment of madness" he now "deeply regretted".

She said he accepted his actions "did amount to the threat of unlawful violence towards officers".

Dixon was also ordered to complete 260 hours of unpaid work and will be subject to a three-month curfew.