Extinction Rebellion Cirencester marched through the town on Saturday afternoon singing ‘Crisis Carols’ in front of the parish church.

People were invited to join the protesters in singing traditional carols with updated words to reflect the urgent climate situation.

Santa, his elves, and a Polar Bear were also out looking for new homes, as 'climate refugees'.

The group say they were taking action to raise awareness of the harm a consumerist Christmas can have on the planet, with a staggering proportion of the presents people buy every year ending up in land fill and much of the packaging single use.

A spokesperson from the group said: “With the election over it is now more important than ever that we hold our government and local MP, Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, accountable.

"The climate crisis will not go away and it will affect the Cotswolds. We are encouraging people to think about different ways they can have a greener Christmas."

Extinction Rebellion Cirencester was formed in August this year and is part of an international movement of people wanting action on climate change.

The group are hosting an informal event in the New Year that will offer inquisitive people the opportunity to come along and put questions to the group.

People will be able to find out about how they can get involved, possibly by joining one of the XR working groups.

The XR drinks night will be held at Porters in Cirencester at 7:30pm on Thursday, January 30.