ENVIRONMENTAL activists are calling for the public to have more input in how the Government handles the coronavirus crisis.

Members of Extinction Rebellion (XR) Brighton gathered on the seafront in Hove today to hold a socially distant demonstration.

Police were in attendance and officers were seen engaging with protest group members and encouraging people not to congregate in groups near the beach huts, where activists were standing.

Protesters wore masks and held banners which read "'Normal' was a crisis", "Now or never, let's decide together" and "New roads or new bike lanes". 

A spokesman for XR Brighton said: "We are protesting in a line so it's not a gathering, and we're being very clear on social distancing rules.

The Argus: Extinction Rebellion protesters lined up at a two metre distance Extinction Rebellion protesters lined up at a two metre distance

"We are here today as we want the Government to include the people's thoughts and voices in their decision on how to get out of this crisis.

"The majority of people want the climate crisis to be a key feature in the recovery of this pandemic.

"We are asking for us to be able to decide together and to use processes like a citizen's assembly to do that.

"There are local issues we are looking at, in terms of being car-free by 2023, for example.

The Argus: An Extinction Rebellion protester. Photos by Joe TaylorAn Extinction Rebellion protester. Photos by Joe Taylor

"But the most important thing is not about specific issues, but about the process.

"We are not telling people what to think but we want a change to the decision making, because currently the people are not involved."