Promises and protests at the G7 in Cornwall – photo essay

Our photographer looks back on three days of politics and demonstrations during the summit in Carbis Bay

With more than 6,000 police deployed to Cornwall for the G7 summit in Carbis Bay, there were surreal sights everywhere: armed officers on residential streets, snipers on rooftops, marine units in St Ives harbour and battleships in the sea. Many residents revelled in the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the action as world leaders and diplomats were convoyed into Carbis Bay, while others objected to the draconian restrictions which included a so-called ring of steel" around the neighbourhood.