Striking figures draped in red walked the streets of Penrith in a show of defiance over climate inaction.

Extinction Rebellion's red rebel brigade took to the streets on Friday in co-ordination with thousands of other climate activists across the world to mark the first anniversary of the global climate strike movement.

The lunchtime demonstration was held in front of the Musgrave Monument in the town.

Ali Ross, speaking for Extinction Rebellion, said: "In a week sandwiched between two storms bringing flooding misery and travel chaos to Cumbria, and with fires threatening to engulf Penrith in New South Wales still fresh in our minds, the need for climate action must surely resonate with everyone."

Banners highlighted local people's love of the landscape and the world.

The message of the Extinction Rebellion contingent was that this is a climate emergency, people must be made aware of this, and there will be a mass extinction of our own making.

Ali added: “Without dramatic and sustained reduction of carbon emissions, flooding will become ever more frequent and severe, and rising sea levels will destroy homes and businesses in coastal areas.

"Internationally, millions of people will be displaced – suffering food shortages, conflict and war as a result.

"While some people find the challenges posed by climate change too big and scary to contemplate, the scientific evidence is clear that the future will be far more terrifying if we fail to act.

"We hope that people will consider our message and join the growing tide of voices demanding climate action."