Syrian government troops are shelling neighbourhoods in the capital Damascus after overnight clashes with rebel fighters, activists said.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the bombardment of the southern neighbourhood of Tadamon early today followed street fighting with rebels there.

Another activist group, the Local Co-ordination Committees, said troops also shelled the nearby neighbourhood of Hajar Aswad.

Syrian regime forces have been able to recapture most areas of the capital that rebels seized in a July offensive.

But the opposition fighters continue to stage attacks using hit-and-run tactics in Damascus neighbourhoods where they enjoy popular support, such as in Hajar Aswad, Tadamon and Qaboun.

Activists say more than 20,000 people have been killed since the uprising against President Bashar Assad's regime began in March last year.