Young volunteers in Swindon have sparked fierce debate after helping the council tackle climate change.

Members of the charity Way UK, working with the council’s new youth centre The Base, contributed to a recent report used as part of the council’s Decarbonisation Framework.

Their involvement and belief that urgent climate action remains possible quickly drew mixed reactions from residents online, with comments ranging from praise for the youngsters’ initiative to doubt and criticism about the realities of local life.

Karen Curtin was among those keen to defend the young people’s efforts, saying the climate crisis should not be dismissed.

She said: “Think people need to take climate change more seriously. I’m a huge fan of Sir David Attenborough and what he has to say about the future of our planet. Good on these youngsters for taking an interest, it is their futures after all.

"Instead of the stupid comments I have read on here, how about you offer them a bit of support. It is your children and grandchildren’s futures too.

"Does make me worry, that so many out there, think it’s something to laugh about. Extreme weather changes are real. It has increased in my life time. I wonder what it will be like for generations to come.”

That support was echoed by other residents.

Gillian Farkas-Blake pointed out the positive influence of seeing young people try to shape policy, stating:........

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