Protests mark shift of mood in Spain

Thousands of young Spaniards angered over joblessness have taken to the streets around the country, stealing thunder from traditional political party campaign rallies ahead of the local elections.

The movement, co-ordinated through social media such as Twitter, marks a shift of sentiment in Spain where until now people have scarcely protested against the European Union's highest unemployment rate, the stagnant economy and government spending cuts.

Most of the protesters are young, from Spain's potential "lost generation" - youth unemployment is running at 45 per cent.