Fracking for shale gas begins in Lancashire amid protests

Fracking for shale gas is under way in Lancashire amid protests against the controversial process.

Energy firm Cuadrilla started hydraulic fracturing at the site in Little Plumpton on Monday, with the work set to continue for three months.

A High Court appeal to stop the fracking was unsuccessful on Friday.

The work marks the first time fracking has taken place in the UK since 2011, when the process was halted after it caused two small earthquakes in Lancashire.

Police closed off the site earlier as around 50 protesters gathered before the work began.

A team had to cut a man and woman out of a set of tyres which they had apparently cemented their arms into.

One activist sat on top of a van outside the site with a banner reading "Stop the Start", while another laid down in front of railings.

Protester Ginette Evans, 60, from Fleetwood, said: "We'll be monitoring the site 24 hours a day.

"It is definitely not over, it has just got serious. The fight's just really started."

Justin Vanparys, 47, from Blackburn, said: "Fossil fuels should stay in the ground.

"We have already got global warming."

Ms Evans said there was a mood of disappointment among protesters, and added: "I'm gutted really.

"It's such a dangerous industry and it shouldn't be here."

She said activists had not been listened to but added: "That just makes you come back even stronger."

The work had been due to start on Saturday but was delayed by the effects of Storm Callum.

A spokesman for the energy firm said: "Cuadrilla is pleased to confirm that it has started hydraulic fracturing operations at our Preston New Road shale gas exploration site.

"Hydraulic fracturing of both horizontal exploration wells is expected to last three months after which the flow rate of the gas will be tested."

Environmental campaigner Bob Dennett failed in a bid to temporarily stop the work at the High Court in London on Friday.

Mr Justice Supperstone dismissed Mr Dennett's application for an injunction, which would have prevented the company from fracking pending his proposed legal challenge.

Mr Dennett claimed Lancashire County Council's emergency response planning and procedures at the site were inadequate, but the judge ruled there was not a "serious issue" to be tried which would justify an interim order.