Four members of the Christian Climate Action group were arrested after climbing onto the roof of Bath Abbey to display a large banner reading “Don’t Crucify Creation.” The activists accessed the roof following a tower tour and refused to come down, prompting police, fire, and ambulance crews to respond to the scene. The disruption led to road closures around the historic site and the cancellation of scheduled tours.
Rev Bill White, 70, one of the protesters, emphasized that the demonstration aimed to urge the Church to take a definitive stand on climate action and support renewable energy as a means to safeguard the planet – which he described as God’s creation. Reflecting on his ministry, Rev White expressed frustration over past priorities and underscored climate change as the greatest injustice facing the world today.
He stated: “The fossil fuel companies, their bankers and insurers, the billionaire-owned media, and their in-pocket politicians must be denounced. The church, rooted in love and justice, with the courage of Jesus, must say loudly ‘Stop Crucifying Creation.’”
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Avon and Somerset Constabulary confirmed the arrests, detailing that officers were called shortly before 12:30 pm on Saturday, 13 September, after Abbey staff reported that the protesters had blocked access to a tower room, forcing the cancellation of tours. Due to the height of the location, fire and rescue crews along with ambulance services were also summoned, and nearby roads were closed to ensure safety.
The protestors ignored formal orders to leave, leading officers to gain entry and escort them off the roof. Two men and two women were arrested on suspicion of aggravated trespass at 3:45 pm and are currently in police custody.