Extinction Rebellion protest over M4 motorway in Reading

Members of Reading's XR group gathered on the Shinfield footbridge this morning just off the Junction 11 roundabout.

The members 'braved the heat' to remind people of climate change and the impact it's having on the planet.

ALSO READ: Reading: What times you can spot the Red Arrows in the skies

Anne Coffey, Reading XR member said: "Plenty of motorists tooted their appreciation. Fortunately, there was a pleasant breeze but by mid-day the heat was increasing. However, the XR members were careful to heed the warnings from health bodies and took water, sun cream, umbrellas etc., for protection, and took it in turns to man the bridges.

READ MORE: Schools set to close in Berkshire due to the heatwave

"The unprecedented temperatures forecast for the next few days are a sign of what is to come if we do not stop burning fossil fuels. Heatwaves are going to become much more common but the government is making very slow progress with ‘green’ policies."

Extinction Rebellion are criticisnig the government's response to the climate emergency, claiming 10 per cent of MPs attending a briefing given by Sir Patrick Vallance on the science behind climate change.

It comes after The Met Office issued a red warning for extreme heat with temperatures expected to reach 40C on Monday. 

The UK Health Security Agency has increased its heat health warning from level three to level four – a “national emergency”.