CLIMATE activists brought busy London streets to a standstill yesterday as part of a mass protest.

Members of Extinction Rebellion (XR) Brighton marched to the capital to join forces with other XR groups from across the UK in to take part in the organisation’s “UK Rebellion – Shut Down London” event.

Activities included blocking roads and bridges, moving a bright pink boat with the words “tell the truth” written on its side into Oxford Circus and protesting at buildings of companies they disagreed with.

One of the companies targeted was Shell. Protesters sprayed messages such as “Shell kills” across the front of the Shell Centre near Waterloo Station and one activist stuck his hand to the revolving door with superglue.

Later, the glass in these doors was shattered by campaigners.

A Shell spokeswoman said: “We respect the right of everyone to express their point of view, we only ask that they do so with their safety and the safety of others in mind.”

Thousands joined the protests which organisers said could last for weeks as they demand the Government takes urgent action on climate change and wildlife declines. They unfurled banners with messages such as “act now” and “the people deserve the truth” as well as several large skeleton puppets.

An XR spokesman said: “The international rebellion begins and Extinction Rebellion will be bringing London to a standstill for up to two weeks. They will be blocking five of the city’s busiest and most iconic locations in a non-violent, peaceful act of rebellion where they invite people to join them for several days of creative, artist-led resistance.”

Organisers have warned activists they could face arrest for blocking traffic and Transport for London said travellers face disruption and delays.