Climate activists arrested after Abbey protest

Bath Abbey tours were cancelled and nearby roads were closed by emergency services

Four climate activists were arrested after climbing a city's historic Abbey in a protest and refusing to come down.

Avon and Somerset Police said it was called to Bath Abbey at about 12:30 BST on Saturday, before officers entered the roof of the tower and escorted them down.

The members of Christian Climate Action accessed the tower room and dropped a banner which read 'Don't Crucify Creation'. The group said it wants to see the Abbey take action "against the forces causing climate and ecological collapse".

Two men and two women, aged in their 50s, 60s and 70s, were arrested hours later on suspicion of aggravated trespass and have been released from police custody under investigation.

Bath Abbey had to cancel its remaining tours for the day, police said, adding nearby roads were also closed.

A spokesman for the force said: "As the incident was at height, the fire and rescue and ambulance services were also called in.

"The individuals ignored a formal direction to leave and subsequently officers gained access to the room and escorted them out."