PEOPLE armed with banners , placards and flags marched through the streets of Ilminster at the weekend to send a message to politicians in Paris.

The event, which was organised by Allison Jarman and supported by the Green Party, attracted a large crowd on Sunday ahead of the climate change conference in the French capital.

Organiser Allison Jarman said: "A great turn-out on a blustery Sunday morning, people of all ages joined to march for climate change.

"Ilminster Climate March attracted people from Taunton, Yeovil and Bridport bringing colourful banners, placards and flags with their own personal messages.

"The focal point of the march was to cover a huge green heart with plastic bottle-tops for re-cycling.

"Due to the high winds, the planned photo in the churchyard was transferred into the church where green plastic bottle-tops were thrown onto the heart. These will be sent for recycling instead of going to landfill.

"Ilminster's message joined over 2000 others sent to the delegates in Paris at the start of the United Nations COP21 where tough decisions will be made to reduce carbon emissions."

The walk through Ilminster was one of 1,923 climate change marches scheduled to take place worldwide before Monday's United nation's Climate Change Conference.

The march started from Tesco in Shudrick Lane, before parading through the town and finishing at the Minster.

The event was organised in association with Avaaz, as part of the Global Climate Change marches.

"Everyone can help," Mrs Jarman added.

"You don't have to give up your car or foreign holidays, there are many small ways to cut your carbon footprint. It is an individual responsibility. We can all do something extra."

"Many thanks to all who attended the Ilminster Climate March. It was a huge success and enjoyed by all.

"Lots of flags and banners were made by children with their own messages. People also joined in as the procession made its way to the Minster.

"The widespread coverage of COP21 and Climate Change in the media shows that our time was well spent.

"Again, many thanks for all of the help and support from friends, family, Nigel Done and his team and the Green Party."