LAST Saturday Crediton took part in the largest international climate change action day in the history of the planet.

Photographs taken at events from around the world, including some from Crediton, were shown on big screens in Times Square, New York.

Protestors at the Crediton Counts event joined others from 181 countries where over 5,200 events took place with the aim of putting across the message that urgent change is needed to reduce the amount of CO2 emissions in the atmosphere.

All the events focused around the figure 350 which represents what NASA scientists believe to be a safe level of CO2 in our atmosphere.

The current level is almost 390 parts per million, which could have disastrous effects on our planet unless immediate action is taken.

The event in Crediton was organised by Crediton Climate Action (CCA) and involved about 150 people who formed a huge figure 350 on the Town Square.

Many other groups and individuals were involved in making pledges or staging events around the figure 350 including Crediton and District Swimming Club where about 40 members aged from seven to 14, made a combined total of 350 dives. Sandford Brownies made 350 handprints on a big sheet of paper. Staff at The Greenhouse are sponsoring the planting of 350 trees on Dartmoor. The Holy Cross bell ringers tolled the bells 350 times and members of a Pilates group performed 350 exercises.

Soozie Fenley-Weiner supported the event by walking on stilts, dressed in silver and wearing a hat with the figure 350 on it.

Music was provided by Crediton Town Band, Crediton World Music Choir and members of CRAMP.

Crediton Women's Environmental Network (WEN) and Beech Hill Community at Morchard Bishop made 350 cakes, which were offered to those present.

CCA Spokesperson, Paula Mossman explained: "It was inspiring to see so many local people get involved in this event." She added: " The event was a great success.

"Climate change is the really big issue of our times which must be addressed.

"The talks are possibly the most important in humanity's history.

"We just hope the politicians really take notice of the concerns of ordinary people from communities like ours all over the planet."

19,000 pictures of the global 350 events can be viewed at http://www.flickr.com/photos/350">www.flickr.com/photos/350 org .

Nora Parminter

Order prints from this event from our website via the Buy Photos link.