ALTON’S young people are taking the lead in the fight for action on climate change.

In taking the message into schools and youth groups, members of Alton Climate Alliance have been hugely encouraged by the response.

Lesley Willis, who spoke at an Amery Hill School assembly, said: “Not only is the younger generation the one with most at stake but they are proving to be very receptive to ideas for action. Their creativity and willingness to act is an example to the rest of us.”

Children and young people will be at the forefront of activity at a climate rally, on Saturday, November 28, from 11am to 1pm, in Alton’s Public Gardens. Among the activities will be the chance to make hand prints with individual messages and a slogan competition, both aimed at sending messages of encouragement to Downing Street the next day when some residents will be joining the demonstrations of support in London.

Entertainment at the rally will be led by Holybourne Singers’ newly-formed chamber choir, with an aerial photograph being taken by a professional drone operator.

Drone organiser John Hubbard said: “This will be a great opportunity to show Alton’s commitment to a successful outcome to the United Nations talks in Paris.

“We’re hoping for maximum turnout when the drone takes off at noon. So to be part of the story be there in good time.”

In urging people to attend the rally, Mrs Willis added: “The importance of letting the Government know that they have our support in their climate negotiations cannot be overstated.”

Rally organisers are detecting growing enthusiasm within the town for their campaign and among town councillors, the vast majority of whom are now on board.

In a statement of support, MP Damian Hinds declared: “Your efforts really do make a difference and it’s great to see Alton put on the climate change map.”