A Cirencester-based Extinction Rebellion group aiming to raise awareness about serious climate and ecological issues has been launched as protesters urge the Government to declare a “climate emergency”.

The group were in the town centre on Saturday asking members of the public 'where are you at with climate change?'.

The on-the-spot poll was a way for the group to gauge individual’s feelings towards the current climate situation and raise awareness of this week's protests in London.

Members of the Cirencester group will be travelling to London to join in the non-violent direct action demonstration which begun this morning. Extinction Rebellion (XR), the group behind the demonstrations in key areas of the capital, vows to continue causing disruption until demands are met.

Its core demands involve the Government declaring a “climate emergency” and action to cut greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2025.

The Cirencester group will be hosting a talk entitled ‘Climate Change through the eyes of a polar explorer’ delivered by adventurer and engineer Vijay Shah.

It will take place at 7:30pm on Thursday, October 17 at the Golden Cross, Black Jack street, Cirencester.