ENVIRONMENTAL protesters from across Worcestershire headed to Birmingham this weekend demanding an end to the controversial HS2 rail link.

Members of the Worcester and Malvern Hills branches of Extinction Rebellion travelled to the Second City in protest against the proposed high speed rail link between Birmingham and London, which they say will have a "devastating impact" on the natural environment.

In addition to the Birmingham protest, members of Extinction Rebellion are continuing their daily vigil in Malvern. The "Vigil for the Earth" is being held in Priory Park to raise awareness of the climate emergency.

Some of the protesters are meditating or praying, while others are talking to the public about the movement.

During the vigil, they are inviting members of the public to learn about the new Climate and Ecological Bill and to pen a letter to West Worcestershire MP Harriet Baldwin asking her to back it.

Those taking part in the Vigil for Earth will be joined at various points over the two weeks by music performers, Himalayan singing bowls, and the Rainbow Guardians of the Earth performers.

Last year, the group staged a "funeral procession" through the town. A large group of protesters walked through Malvern carrying a coffin before staging a "die-in" in Priory Park.

The Malvern Hills group also delivered an open letter for Worcestershire County Council demanding the council take action on the climate.