CLIMATE campaigners recently held a peaceful protest at a National Trust property near Romsey. 

National Trust members were protesting against the heritage body banking with Barclays.

A choir joined the demonstration at Mottisfont on Sunday, August 4. 

Manthan Pathak, who took part in the protest, said: “I have been donating to the National Trust for years. But I never realised in all this time that my money was going directly to Barclays Bank, a bank that funds fossil fuels and arms and so many other things that I am completely opposed to. I don’t want my money to support such a horrific business and I wish the National Trust would make much more of an effort to cut ties with Barclays. 

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“They have known of their members’ ethical concerns for years now and they just don’t seem to be doing all that much about it. The event is part of a week of colourful actions by campaigners across the country to urge the National Trust to ditch Barclays, which has poured $235.2 billion into fossil fuels in the last seven years.”

Groups taking part in the campaign include Tipping Point, Christian Climate Action, Parents for Future, Money Rebellion, Extinction Rebellion and others. 

Christelle Blunden, who also took part, said: “For me, the National Trust stands for beautiful scenery and lush landscapes. I visit National Trust sites very regularly, they are such a great way of getting out of the city, relaxing and enjoying nature. 

“So I’m very disappointed that an organisation like the National Trust doesn’t prioritise the value of nature in their banking choice. Barclays destroys nature with its horrific lending and investments in unethical industries. Knowing that I’m indirectly supporting Barclays really spoils my trips to National Trust sites.”