The silent activists who brave Cardiff city centre in all weathers to take a stand on climate change

THEY are the peaceful protesters who – come rain or shine – take to Cardiff city centre’s busy shopping streets to make their point.

And Tuesday, November 4, was no different as the group braved a heavy downpour to grab the attention of passers-by at the start of the Christmas shopping season.

The protesters made their silent protest outside Barclays Bank on Working Street, calling for stronger action on climate change.

Most members of the group were in their 70’s and 80’s, according to their organiser, and are united by concern over Barclays’ role as a major funder of the fossil fuel industry.

The group – which calls itself the Christian Climate Action Group – is urging people to move their money away from banks which support oil and gas expansion.

“We need more people to stand up to big oil money,” said Stephen Lingwood, 43, a Unitarian minister who organised Tuesday’s event.

 “This is the action we believe we can take most effectively. It’s a big, complicated economic system we live in, and it’s difficult to know where to make a change.”

For many, the issue feels deeply personal. The protesters worry not only about global impacts but also about the future of coastal regions across Wales, where rising sea levels already threaten homes and livelihoods.

The group, which includes Unitarians, Quakers, and Catholics, according to Mr Lingwoodd, describes itself as an interfaith movement open to anyone moved by the cause.

They have held monthly protests for two years, maintaining their quiet vigil despite mixed reactions from the public.

“Some people stop to talk or express support, others just walk past,” Mr Lingwood said. “I once heard a child ask, ‘Why have they got their eyes closed?’ But I think most people take in our message, even if they don’t stop.”

A spokesperson for Barclays told The Cardiffian: “The economies that we serve still rely on conventional energy for reliable and affordable power.”

Additionally, Barclays say they have invested in sustainable energy. A spokesperson added: “Since 2020, we have taken significant steps to help build a clean energy system with resilient and affordable energy, facilitating over a quarter of a trillion dollars in sustainable and transition financing and invested almost a quarter of a billion pounds into climate tech companies”