'We've got five years to save the planet' - National Climate Relay reaches Worcester

CITY schoolchildren took part in a national relay to raise awareness about climate change.

Pupils and teachers from Nunnery Wood Primary School and Oldbury Park Primary School joined the University of Worcester's medical students on the Worcester leg of the UK-wide relay.

Participants arrived at Nunnery Wood Primary School in the morning before the relay continued on to the university's Severn Campus.

Speaking to participants on Severn Campus, Lord Victor Adebowale, chair of the NHS Confederation, said: "Scientists across the world are saying we have five years before the damage done to our planet is virtually irreversible.

"When I say we've got five years to save the planet, that's not a joke and it's not an exaggeration - it's a fact."

The National Climate Relay began at Ben Nevis on June 6 and will finish on July 4 at Big Ben, London - coinciding with the General Election.

Inside the baton is a message calling for action to cut emissions, restore nature and support those hardest hit by climate change.

On the university's own green efforts, Professor Sally Moyle, pro-vice chancellor for health and science, added: "We are standing outside our new, state-of-the-art medical school.

"This site has been redesigned into an energy efficient, all-electric building, and it's the second one to undergo sustainable redevelopment."

Katy Boom, director of sustainability at the university, said: "These events are important because it gives the student voice a chance to go out and tell the community about what they're achieving.

"They want to change the world."

Relay organisers Running Out of Time were in attendance, and their crew member, Harry Hughes, said: "The key message is around cutting emissions, restoring nature, and helping those most affected by climate change.

"But ultimately, our aim is to get people involved and talking about it - and ensure the next generation is aware of climate change."

As part of the initiative, the relay's baton can only be moved via human power, meaning participants can walk, run, and cycle on the route.

Crew member Roisin McDonough, added: "We have had a great reception from schools all over the country since the relay began.

"It's great to see all the green initiatives they are taking on."