COLOURFUL Extinction Rebellion campaigners joined arts fans in Wimborne at the weekend – but for a different reason.

As hundreds enjoyed performances as part of the Inside Out Dorset event in the town on Saturday (September 16), the XR Wimborne group staged a protest against fossil fuels.

But they got into the spirit of things, performing themselves during their demonstration, receiving a ‘warm reception’ from townsfolk.

“We sang fossil fuels themed songs, processed and unfurled banners before the Inside Out performances started, and in parts of Wimborne where performances weren’t taking place,” a spokesperson said.

The colourful XR Wimborne demonstration

“Our message was simple, there’s still time to avoid the worst of climate chaos,” added retired ship’s captain, Peter Aldous.

The campaigners were joining the Global Fight Fossil Fuels action.

“The placards and leaflets we used in Wimborne featured upside down elements because climate change will turn our planet upside down,” said resident, Joanna Bury.

Another group member, Steve Hutton, said: “I’m very proud to have taken part in the global call to end fossil fuels.

“To have received the warm reception we did in Wimborne reminds me that I live in a town where people really care about the environment and the future of our planet.”