MORE arrests were made overnight outside a wind turbine factory where climate change activists are staging a protest in support of workers occupying the plant.

Police said two men were arrested close to the Vestas Wind Systems site on the Isle of Wight, following three arrests yesterday.

Around 25 workers are staging a sit-in as part of a campaign to save the factory from closure next week, with the loss of hundreds of jobs.

The Danish owners of the factory erected a fence around the site yesterday in response to a growing protest by environmental and climate change demonstrators.

Workers said the fence was being built to stop food or drink being sent in, leading to complaints that the company's move was illegal.

''It's appalling,'' said one of the workers. ''We are convinced this is against the human rights act because we are being denied humanitarian aid. But the more the management try to flush out, the more determined we are to dig in our heels.''

The latest arrests were of a 41-year-old man from London on suspicion of criminal damage and a 23-year-old man on suspicion of failing to comply with a condition for a public assembly.

Police said access to food and water inside the factory was a matter for Vestas management and the demonstrators, adding that officers were not stopping food supplies from entering the site.

Insp Paul Savill said: ''Police have a responsibility to help ensure demonstrations at Vestas remain safe and peaceful.

''Local officers on duty at the site acknowledge and understand the strength of feeling regarding the closure of this wind turbine blade factory, and its impact on the community, staff and their families.

''Police have retained an independent role in maintaining public order and safety around the site and preventing crime while employees protesting and Vestas management negotiate to resolve the situation.

''We are working with staff involved in the demonstration and the company's managers to support a safe outcome to the situation as soon as possible.

''Hampshire Constabulary served a notice under section 14 of the Public Order Act 1986 on Wednesday afternoon to ensure any ongoing demonstrations outside the plant can take place lawfully, safely and peacefully.

''Officers intend to remain on duty around the site to prevent serious disorder and protect public safety.''