Extinction Rebellion Forres members were part of Unite to Survive at The Big One calling for a stop on all new oil and gas licences

LOCAL climate change activists attended four days of non-violent demonstration in London to raise awareness of environmental issues.

Extinction Rebellion (XR) Forres members and their XR Highlands & Islands counterparts were part of national event ‘Unite to Survive at The Big One’ from April 21 to 24 at the Houses of Parliament, centred around calling on the UK government to stop all new oil and gas licences.

Gillian Cummins confirmed Scotland was well represented by organisations also including Global Justice Now Scotland, Womens’ Climate Strike, Christian Climate Action Scotland and the Climate Majority Project.

She said: “The Big One involved over 200 organisations and groups, and offered many diverse events and activities over the four days.

“Attendees formed People’s Pickets outside the Ministry of Defence and the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, formed a vast crowd on a Biodiversity March for Earth Day, walked with the Red Rebels and participated in outreach events during the London Marathon.”

She added: “Some were members of faith groups which held services, sang and sat in silence under a huge beech tree in St James’ Park. This was amidst drumming samba bands, streams of tourists visiting the nearby mall and children taking part in a mini-marathon.”

As well as pickets outside government departments, speakers, performers and workshops, there was art and music, talks from experts, places to listen and engage, and activities for children.

Gillian said: “What an extraordinary celebration of life in the streets around Westminster!

“Folk of all ages gathered and walked slowly to the seats of power where decisions regarding our survival are made.

“It’s hard to sum up the atmosphere of solidarity, friendship, compassion, love for the natural world of which we’re a part - and profound concern at the political inaction which threatens our future.”