A strong turnout at St Dunstan’s Church saw around 100 people gather for a screening of The People’s Emergency Briefing, followed by a public discussion about what the issues raised in the film may mean locally.

The screening formed part of a wider UK programme of events designed to help communities engage with the climate and nature crisis, and is supported by naturalist Chris Packham.

The film’s aim is to make vital information accessible in every constituency, in a format that is clear, human and watchable.

Discussion afterwards focused particularly on anger and frustration at the extent of the crisis, combined with hope that action can now be taken.

Marion Golding, who helped to organise the event, said: “Local interest in the film was amazing – all our free tickets were allocated and we had to turn some people away.

“What then stood out was how ready people were to stay, talk and listen to one another after the screening. The animated discussions showed that many people in our area value having an opportunity to explore these issues together.”

Organisers say there was strong interest in local people encouraging Woking’s MP, Will Forster, in his backing of the Parliamentary call for a televised emergency briefing on the climate and nature crisis. There was also much discussion on how best to engage local young people.

Cllr Ann-Marie Barker, leader of Woking Borough Council, attended throughout. From 1 April next year she will hold the environment portfolio in the new West Surrey Council and told attendees of her commitment to organising a screening of the film for all council staff.

More information and details of further public screenings are available on the National Emergency Briefing’s website, https://www.nebriefing.org/

Local groups are encouraged to organise a screening for their members.