A FUNERAL-like climate change demonstration in a town centre yesterday morning had shoppers stopping in their tracks. 

The Red Rebels, who are a branch of Extinction Rebellion, walked and mimed through the streets of Witney making people aware of the effects of climate change.

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The group held a similar demonstration in Oxford in October, but what made this protest different was the group were followed by a musical procession and members also dressed in black as though it were a funeral.

Witney Gazette:

A makeshift coffin with the words 'Life on Earth' enscribed on the sides was carried through the streets following the red group.

The demonstrators were dressed in bright red to signify the blood of species that have died as a result of climate change, as well as those that will die in the future.

Witney Gazette:

Hana Fetigan, 16, from Witney, followed the procession.

She said: "It's been an interesting reaction here in Witney - different to what I expected. It's quite a conservative town and very different to London where I've been before with Extinction Rebellion."

The youngster has been a member of the climate change group since August.

Witney Gazette:

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She added: "It's good because I can get involved as much as I want to. It's so nice seeing young people being so supportive of one another. It gives me hope."

The group came to a stop at Church Green where it was as though a funeral service took place as members came forward speaking about climate change.

One member said: "Firmly establish your intention to live your life for the healing of this world. Be conscious - honour and nurture it every day.

"Be fully present in our time. Find the courage to breathe in the suffering in the world.

Witney Gazette:

"Have faith that the higher forces of wisdom and compassion will manifest through our actions in the healing of the world."