Topless protesters celebrate Pope's resignation at Notre Dame - video

Topless feminists have stormed the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris to celebrate the Pope's resignation.

Members of the Ukrainian group Femen marched through the French capital on Tuesday (February 12) with slogans such as 'Pope no more' and 'Bye bye Benoit' written on their bodies.



They entered the 850-year-old Catholic church and proceeded to chant while ringing the bell.

Security then arrived at the scene and escorted the women out of the cathedral.

They described themselves as "provocateurs", and said they were also marching in support of equal marriage rights for same-sex couples.

Pope Benedict XVI unexpectedly announced his resignation on Monday (February 11), saying that he feels he no longer has the strength to fulfil the role.

He will officially step down from the pontificate on Thursday, February 28.