Extinction Rebellion protesters blockade Avara factory

Protesters from Extinction Rebellion held a peaceful demonstration outside Avara's feed mill on the B4348 in Allensmore this morning.

The radical political group says Avara Foods, the largest chicken rearer and processor in the region, together with its joint parent company Cargill, are “killing the Wye” due to pollution from the birds’ manure.

The action is part of a series of so-called Midlands Uprising events across the region between July 9 and 31.

Local XR organiser David Gillam said: “One of XR’s central principles is an adherence to non-violence. Of course, people have differing ideas of whether smashing a window is or isn’t non-violent depending on the situation.”

A spokesperson for Avara defended the company’s record, saying: “Pollution in the Wye is the result of many factors, and we’ve publicly accepted we are one, but permanent and lasting improvements will only come from looking at the problem as a whole and collaborating positively to effect change.

“We’ve made clear that we are committed to playing our part and are already supporting a number of projects that have the potential to divert all poultry litter from our supply chain away from land.”

Superintendent Edd Williams said: “We are working with staff and protestors to ensure the protests run smoothly and with minimal disruption to the public.

“If you have any concerns please speak to officers at the scene.”