Hong Kong protests one month old

It's been exactly a month since Hong Kong's pro-democracy protesters took to the streets demanding a free vote in 2017.

On September 28, demonstrators defied police pepper spray and tear gas to occupy parts of one of the world's main financial centres.

It was the start of the city's worst civil unrest in decades.

The campaign has dwindled from thousands to hundreds, but many are saying they're ready to tough it out.

(SOUNDBITE) (Cantonese) 23-YEAR-OLD PROTESTER, IRIS CHEUNG, SAYING:

"For Hong Kong people or for students this has been a huge inspiration. Previously I've always thought, as a student and an ordinary person, you can't do anything and can only quietly accept government policies."

Talks between the government and demonstrators have gone nowhere, and it's taken a toll on some.

(SOUNDBITE) (Cantonese) 67-YEAR-OLD PROTESTER, JOSEPH CHUNG, SAYING:

"Actually throughout my life, and I'm 67 years old this year, this month has been the