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Protestors descend on London to speak out against cost of living crisis

Protestors descend on London to speak out against cost of living crisis

Hundreds of people have taken to the streets across the country to protest the impact of the cost-of-living crisis.

Huge crowds gathered outside Euston station on Saturday afternoon as activists from “Enough is Enough” prepared to march on Westminster.

One protester, who gave his name as George, held a sign that criticised the Conservatives’ lack of “fiscal budget responsibility” along with their record on fossil fuels.

“I think no government can run if it’s spending more, like vastly more, than it’s bringing in,” he said.

“That can’t carry on forever.”

Other protest groups also joined the rally including Just Stop Oil, Extinction Rebellion (XR) and the Revolutionary Communist Group (RCG).

XR and Cuban flags were flown and a sign reading “save my future” was seen propped up in a baby buggy.

Meg, a member of Doctors For Extinction Rebellion, said: “This is a climate emergency and people are already dying, more are going to die from the effects of climate change.

“We’re acting in line with the values of health professionals who are supposed to try to protect public health and then safeguard people’s lives and wellbeing.”

Julie Hesmondhalgh, who played Coronation Street’s Hayley Cropper, will speak at the Manchester rally alongside Lamin Touray, who played footballer Ashley Hardcastle on the soap.

It comes as travellers face severe disruption over the weekend as rail employees strike over a pay dispute.

Award-winning comedian Rob Delaney is joining the Rail, Maritime and Transport union’s Mick Lynch and Dave Ward of the Communication Workers Union at the London event.

Mr Delaney said: “Does a chief executive need an extra zero at the end of their salary, or should nurses, posties and teachers be able to heat their homes this winter? Enough is enough.”

Former Coronation Street actor Lamin Touray said: “I saw the EnoughisEnough campaign and just thought, that’s exactly what everyone is feeling.

“I don’t think anyone remembers when times have been this hard. (The) Government needs to sit up and listen to the people – it can’t go on like this.”

Hairy Biker, chef and presenter, Si King said: “Millions of hardworking people and families across our country are being forced into poverty and utter desperation due to the cost-of-living crisis.

“We have a system that favours corporate power and wealth over normal people. Those in power have neither the will nor the empathy to change it.”

The protests have coincided with picket lines being mounted by railway workers outside major stations across the country as part of the latest strike in the long running dispute over pay, jobs and conditions.