Just Stop Oil protest in Chippenham blocks busy roads

The demonstration began outside Chippenham train station, at around 11am on Friday, and moved to the High Street, via Station Hill and New Road, as protesters slowly marched on the road.

Motorists reacted angrily to the delays, shouting abuse at the protesters, while one even mounted the pavement to avoid the blockage on Station Hill.

The group totalled around a dozen people and blocked traffic, while letting buses and cyclists through, until they reached the Market Place.

They then turned around and followed the same route back to the train station, this time with a small police escort.

In total the demonstration lasted around an hour, during which time traffic was heavily delayed in the town centre.

During the march the activists, who had come from around the county as well as Bristol and Bath, called on the government not to license any new oil, gas or coal production and warned of “catastrophic” environmental consequences if they did.

Maddie Adams, who travelled from Bath for the demonstration, said: “I’ve written letters, sent petitions and met with my MP, but achieved nothing.

“Historically small groups of people with a very important message change minds and government policies, it’s a desperate measure but I’ve tried everything else.

“I think this is the only important thing because we’re headed for an unliveable planet, when I was 18 I had everything ahead of me but what have my children and grandchildren got to look forward to?”

Both frustrated drivers and pedestrians challenged the group during their march and protesters were subjected to abuse on several occasions.

Just Stop Oil members said they understand the frustrations of those disrupted by the movement but will continue to raise awareness of environmental issues.

Mrs Adams added: “Today was very calm and peaceful, we had a few nasty comments thrown at us but you expect that.

“A lot of people aren’t aware of how serious this situation is and think we’re a load of idiots, but we’re headed for a three degree planet.

“It (the abuse) hurts because nobody likes anger being directed at them, but nothing is more important than this.”

Another protester said: “I wouldn’t choose to do this but it’s so important and somebody has to hold the government to account.”

The demonstration follows a recent protest in Bath, while the group are also planning to cause similar disruption in Bradford on Avon next week.