High numbers of protests have continued (Picture: Getty)

The Mayor of London has raised concerns that a sustained cycle of protests and vigils held in the capital is creating a funding gap for the Metropolitan Police.

In a letter to Home Secretary James Cleverly, Sadiq Khan said the funding gap could now be as high as £240 million, and has appealed for more support.

Mr Khan said London faces ‘unique pressures as a capital city’ because of the number of protests, sporting events, cultural festivals and ceremonial events it hosts.

The capital has seen a number of protests calling for a ceasefire in Gaza, including on Armistice Day, as well as demonstrations over the cost of living crisis and the environment.

Mr Khan said: ‘These additional costs result in reduced resource available for frontline and neighbourhood teams… London’s communities directly suffer.’

Mr Cleverly will soon consider the police funding settlement which sets out grants for police forces in England and Wales.

Mr Khan added: ‘I would like to highlight the current underfunding of the National and International Capital City (NICC) grant.’