A coalition of environmental activists and local residents has occupied a forest in Surrey South of London to block Europa Oil from cutting a hectare of protected Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that is also part of the local Green Belt. They have built a massive fort-like structure on the planned location of the drilling site, surrounded by tree houses and platforms and are also maintaining a roadside camp. The support of many locals has been exceptional, with meals cooked by a different local family each evening being brought to the protest site. The camp occupation is run by a small group of mostly older activists, with the fort being a closed to the outsiders high security installation. More direct-action and eco-defense activists are welcomed to exchange their skills and keep the struggle against fossil fuels going at this beautiful and still natural location.

Links:
saveleithhill.com
voiceforleithhill.co.uk
www.bbc.com/news/video_and_audio/features/magazine-39117535/39117535 (Video)