A major campaign against climate change is officially under way in Kent.

The Camp for Climate Action at Hoo opened its gates to hundreds of eco-activists from across the UK, as part of a week-long protest against plans for a new coal-fired plant at Kingsnorth.

Sunday's events began with a small but energetic rally from Rochester to Kingsnorth, organised by Camp supporters, Campaign Against Climate Change.

Approximately 200 people turned out on Rochester High Street for the march, and listen to various speakers from Kent and further afield, including Green MEP Caroline Lucas.

The march began at 1.15pm, though many protestors opted to take the bus or ride bikes to the station than walk the full seven miles to the site.

Protestors reached the power station just after 5pm, flanked by scores of police officers, including mounted units and a police helicopter, but no incidents have been reported as yet.

Many supporters then marched a further two miles to join the official camp.

The week-long protest is set to culminate on August 9 with a day of mass action at Kingsnorth, with protesters attempting to shut down the station by land, sea and air.

See Monday’s print edition of Medway Messenger for more reports and pictures from the Camp's opening day.

Want to know more? Visit our Climate Camp 08 special report >>>