MORE than 80 campaigners took to the Westbury White Horse last weekend to oppose potential plans to frack in Wiltshire.

A banner reading ‘FRACK? NO!’ was unfurled on Sunday (January 31) at the top of the iconic landmark in protest over the controversial process.

The action was part of a national day of solidarity with counties across the country, including Somerset, Devon and Gloucester.

Four areas in Wiltshire, including Warminster, Trowbridge, Westbury, Chitterne and Erlstoke, were recently granted licences meaning companies will have the sole right to drill in the area if they are granted permission.

The announcement came just days after MPs voted in favour of drilling under National Parks and other protected areas, meaning places such as the White Horse in Westbury could be drilled under.

Warminster campaigner Jon Davies, said: “Hundreds of wells would be needed to make the industry profitable, which is why unconventional gas exploitation such as shale and coal bed methane is so much more invasive than conventional gas, and has such a negative impact on the community in terms of pollution and HGV traffic.

“It would industrialise the countryside and the effects on tourism and local house prices could be terrible.

“The risks of water contamination and air pollution are very real and we have no confidence in the regulatory regime to protect us.

“We urge people to do their own research and see the facts for themselves.

“We would much rather see the renewable energy industries receive more support and suggest readers consider switching to a green energy supplier.

“The fracking industry is unwanted, unnecessary and unsafe and we do not want Wiltshire to turn into a gasfield.”