Channel 4 newsreader Jon Snow has sparked controversy by refusing to wear a Remembrance Day poppy on air in protest at "poppy fascism".

Writing on a Channel 4 blog, Snow admitted the absence of a poppy on his lapel had prompted viewer complaints.

He said he respected the armed forces and wore a poppy off-air but did not believe in wearing symbols on air.

The Royal British Legion said wearing a poppy was a voluntary gesture and Snow was entitled to his opinion.