University College Isle of Man has criticised a pro-life demonstration outside its gates for ’causing distress’ to vulnerable students and those as young as 14.

The college was only informed by police, not the group, that there would be a display of anti-abortion signs on the public footpath opposite its premises and outside its front gates on Monday (October 21).

A UCM spokesman said: ’As an education institution, we value and support the appropriate expression of informed opinion.

’However, on this occasion, although the protest was passive, banners held contained graphic images which caused distress to our younger and more vulnerable students, who did not have a choice but to walk pass the protestors to get into the campus.

’Students who attend UCM range from age 14 upwards, and we feel that a demonstration like this targeting such young and potentially vulnerable people was not appropriate.

’In addition, some exams and lessons were disrupted as students were distracted by the demonstration.’

The spokesman added: ’Some of our students put forward a counter argument for "pro-choice" and made makeshift banners themselves to communicate their message.’

Students affected by the demonstration were advised to contact the student services team for support.

Demonstration organiser Ros Taisia said the group always informs the police ahead of pro-life demonstrations in public spaces. They held up images of foetuses in the womb and handed out leaflets with the title ’It’s time to stop killing babies’.

Student Lucianne Bullock, 17, took part in a counter-protest using hand-made signs including ’No uterus, no choice’ and other messages.

She said: ’When I read a leaflet titled "stop killing babies" I became enraged at the lack of regard for the women involved.

’I couldn’t understand why anyone should be shamed or made to feel that they’re doing wrong at such an emotional and difficult time.’