Gay marriage advocates blocked streets in Melbourne to protest against tennis great Margaret Court who was speaking at a Liberal party event.

A crowd of at least 50 activists blocked the function entrance in the city and brought traffic to a standstill, with roads closed and dozens of police separating the crowd from attendees.

The function was a fundraiser for Brad Rowswell, the state Liberal candidate for suburban seat of Sandringham.

Court, a Christian pastor, wrote an open letter last month criticising Qantas and its CEO Alan Joyce for promoting same-sex marriage.

Protestors chanted "Margaret Court you've lost the set, your bigotry can't clear the net" while guests entered through side entrances.

Equal Love advocate and spokeswoman Danica Cheesley said while Ms Court had a right to voice her opinions on a national platform, the group had a right to protest.

"The comments she made were pretty abhorrent," Ms Cheesley said.

"It think it's disgusting she's speaking at this event after what she said and the party should have cancelled her appearance."

AAP 2017

Auto News:2017 Mercedes-AMG E63 S - the one we've been waiting for - caradvice.com.au

Career news: Three common career progression questions answered- seek.com.au

Auto news:New BMW M5 detailed - caradvice.com.au

Auto news:Ford Australia vs Holden; who will win the battle on the racetrack? - caradvice.com.au

Auto news:Suzuki is Australia's lovable underdog - caradvice.com.au

Auto news:Jaguar's tough limited-tun XE SW Project 8 sports sedan - caradvice.com.au

Auto news:Battle of the V8 Beasts: 5.0L Ford Mustang vs 6.2L Holden Commodore - caradvice.com.au

Read the rest here:

Margaret Court met with protests at Liberal party event - 9news.com.au