Day of action against HS2 begins with early morning protest in Fairford Leys and Stone

Campaigners staged an early morning protest in affected Stone and Fairford Leys, signalling the start of a day of action against the HS2 rail scheme.

Works officially began on the rail scheme yesterday, and enforcement officers moved to clear a protest camp at Jones Hill Wood near Wendover.

And in Aylesbury camapaigners started the day with a noisy by peaceful roadside protest in Fairford Leys and Stone, two areas where traffic has already become unbearable because of the works.

The event, which was organised by Friars club chiefs and anti-HS2 campaigners Sue and David Stopps, was attended by a number of people waving banners and placards including Aylesbury mayor Mike Smith.

David said: "There was a great deal of support, especially from motorists who honked their horns - the sound was just blaring! It went really well.

"We had the Mayor along in his role as councillor, and really appreciated him adding his support. I wore a suit and tie, just to show that this is a scheme which will affect everyone, all the ordinary people here. And it's going to last for seven years.

"I don't think the people of Aylesbury realise how bad this is going to get."

Elsewhere The Bucks Goat Centre recieved a shock last week, when HS2 contractors turned up unannounced and mistakenly began cutting hedgerows belonging to the centre which surround the animal enclosures.

Owner Ruth Gaisford, who was on holiday at the time immedietly contacted the developers to complain, and a meeting was arranged to discuss the costly error.

A HS2 spokesperson said: “We have received a complaint about our contractors clearing a section of hedgerow between our land and the Buckinghamshire Goat Centre.

"We have been in touch with the Goat Centre and paused work while this matter is investigated.”

The Bucks Herald has been leading the online HS2: Enough Is Enough campaign, if you would like to join our Facebook group click HERE