PLANS to sell of some of Southampton's art works have been voted through despite a demonstration to stop the controversial move.

More than 60 people gathered on the steps on the Civic Centre shouting “hands off not for sale” and “don’t vote Tory”.

At a meeting of the full council, they handed over a petition with more than 2,500 names deploring the proposed sale of two pieces of art.

But the, the Tory-controlled council that wants to sell a painting by English artist Alfred Munnings and a sculpture by French master Auguste Rodin, voted to continue with the plans.

All funds raised will help pay for the £15m Sea City Museum, which will feature a Titanic exhibition and new space for the City Art Gallery.

Councillors voted to formally approach the Attorney General Baroness Scotland of Asthal – the Government’s chief legal advisor – and powerful Museums, Libraries and Archives Council to gain approval for the move.