Despite the bitter cold, a dozen hardy volunteers gathered on Princeshay in Exeter to campaign against Volkswagen's lack of social responsibility towards the environment and it's customers. Some of us were seasoned street campaigners, whilst others were very new to being active on the high street with Greenpeace.
The morning event was organised following the successful VW film night on the preceeding Friday and it was encouraging to see that a select group of the audience wanted to take the next step to persuade others to support the campaign. One of the aims of the weekend was to revitalise interest in the Exeter area to form a new Greenpeace group. And what better way to get people active ... get out on the streets. Newbie, Julian took up the challenge with enthusiasm and found himself landing feet first ... into a Stormtrooper outfit. He accompanied Stormtrooper Pete (from Salisbury) to attract public support for the VW campaign. Both did a marvellous job and, as we have come to expect, they were the centre of attention for the passing public - giving us a great opportunity to explain that the biggest car manufacturer in Europe is opposing laws that would require them to produce more fuel efficient and cleaner cars.
Of course, as our Stormtrooper mates are spending so much time on Planet Earth, helping out with our VW campaign they are having to get to grips with everyday life - catching the bus, shopping in the local supermarket, eating out, playing on shop escalators and even mellowing with a cuddly toy! You might think they are the hard exterior bullies of the Galactic Empire when really they just want to be loved. Thumbs up to the local street entertainer who made a mini-Brian out of balloons. The video below shows what our Stormtrooper did in Exeter over the weekend.
A big well done to all who took part - a very worthwhile morning which ended with much welcomed piping hot coffees in one of the local coffee shops. From this point the newly enthused Exeter volunteers made arrangements to meet again and plan what is sincerely hoped to be a new group in the area. Other local groups in the South West offer their wholehearted support to you and wish you every success in your endeavours.
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