Four activists from the Christian Climate Action group were arrested after climbing onto the roof of Bath Abbey in Bath and displaying a large banner reading “Don’t Crucify Creation.” The protestors gained access to the tower during a scheduled tour before unfurling their message, urging the Church to take a stronger stand on climate change and support renewable energy.
Emergency services, including ambulances and fire crews, were dispatched to the scene as the protesters refused to come down. The disruption led to the cancellation of tours and the closure of nearby roads around the historic city landmark.
Rev Bill White, 70, one of the activists involved, explained that the demonstration aimed to challenge the Church’s perceived indecision regarding climate action. “The Church, rooted in love and justice, must have the courage to stand up and say ‘Stop Crucifying Creation’,” he said. White reflected on his years as a parish priest, expressing regret over the energy spent on trivial matters instead of addressing the “greatest evil” of climate change — an injustice fueled by corporate and political interests.
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Avon and Somerset Constabulary confirmed the arrests, stating they responded shortly before 12:30 pm after Abbey staff reported being unable to access the tower room where the protest was taking place. Due to safety concerns, emergency services were called, and nearby roads were temporarily closed. After ignoring formal instructions to leave, officers accessed the tower and escorted the four individuals—two men and two women—from the premises.
All four were arrested on suspicion of aggravated trespass around 3:45 pm and are currently in police custody as investigations continue.