I truly hope the G20 protests today go well. In what sense? I hope no one is injured and yobs don't steal all the attention from legitimate protesters and their very serious messages for President Obama (still get a thrill saying that!) and the rest of the world's leaders. (If you can't make it, get in the G20 spirit with these snazzy organic 'Obama pants' from Twisted Twee, right). 

 

 

 

 

 

I was pleasantly surprised to see that one of the protest groups today will be the Stop the War Coalition. I was at the original Stop the War march in February 2003 (left with baby, who looks oddly bored in the hubbub), not that anyone took our very excellent advice at the time. Unfortunately I won't be there today, sheathed in glory (and an organic scarf) scaling walls or holding up placards for the camera crews. I've no exciting get-out-of-demo-free note either, just banal excuses: a sick child home from school and a hospital appointment (nothing too serious, thanks). Still, not exactly the stuff of which eco warriors are made, is it?

 

Our family has attended enough protests for our six-year-old to include a Demo chapter in her autobiography for school (she's less bored of it these days), but of late I wouldn't earn any A* grades. I didn't even make Saturday's G20 protests. I was just across the river, minding my friend Mikala Djorup's jewellery studio and shop in Gabriel's Wharf while she was out of town. (Mikala makes gorgeous jewellery, including new experimental work in sustainable materials such as cardboard and this spectacular flower brooch made from bubble wrap, right.)

 

I also missed the pivotal Campaign Against Climate Change march on 6 December, being en route to Aberdeen to attend my godson's Christening. At least I was on a train instead of a flight, so did eight hours' penance each way (though I really enjoyed the 'me time'). Still, must do better. I've just been invited to the International Day of Climate Action (24 October). Perhaps if I pencil that in now, I'll actually make it on the day.

 

If protests aren't really your thing, at least go see The Age of Stupid (no rain, pesky riot police or embarrassing YouTube footage; just a comfy chair and popcorn). I've seen the film and it's a real call to action; on Radio 4's Today programme, Richard Curtis even said it should be 'essential viewing' for Obama). At least no matter how serious today's protests get, London won't look like it does in the film (above) but if international governments don't act soon, it just might one day.

 

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