‘Hot’ topics discussed at town’s second ClimateFest

BACK for a second year, ClimateFest returned last weekend with informative and reflective sessions about what we can all do to protect the climate.

The event was held on Saturday 9th September on what was one of the hottest days of the year.

Residents turned out to listen to speakers, view exhibitions, browse environment-related stalls, watch presentations and ask questions of key representatives in the community including campaigners, experts and councillors.

There were talks on subjects including electric buses and heat pumps and from the campaign group Extinction Rebellion.

Organised by the Environment and Climate Working Group of Melksham Town Council, chair Graham Ellis said, “We would like to thank everyone who braved the hottest day of the year to attend the ClimateFest.

“Highlights of the day include the talks and conversation showing real concern and interest, the very positive support from our mayor, seated on the panel and confirming the town’s commitment and the speaker from Extinction Rebellion telling us how she and they see things going in the future.

“It was also great to listen to the speaker on heating and energy pointing out that we have the technology we need today to solve a lot of the problems.”

The only disappointment, said Graham, was that just 50 people attended the festival that was held at Melksham Assembly Hall.

“It was ironic that it was the hottest day of the year and a number of people have told me that they would have come along had it not been so hot,” he said. “It was a case though of plenty of quality, not enough quantity.

“Organisers will explore as to why that was, whether it was lack of messaging or people just skipping by anything to do with ‘climate’.

“A special thanks to the speakers, question panel, stall holders and town council staff. It certainly set me thinking as we listened to our speakers telling us that we have the technology already to overcome the issues should we fully implement them. That was one hopeful message that we can take from the Festival.”