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Greta Thunberg Bristol protest: College Green grass growing back

BBC College GreenBBC
College Green in front of the Anglican cathedral in Bristol on Monday after Friday's climate crisis rally

Grass is growing back on the site of a climate change rally in Bristol that was led by Greta Thunberg, after it became a mudbath.

The green space on College Green is returning to normal days after the protest, which immediately led to complaints the area had been destroyed.

Thousands of people attended the Youth Strike for Climate protest on Friday.

It prompted a fundraiser for repairs to be carried out that has now reached nearly £14,000.

College Green after the School Strike protest in Bristol
The Bristol Youth Strike 4 Climate rally churned up College Green angering many
College Green at the end of the rally
College Green at the end of the rally

Bristol City Council said any funds left over would be used for wildflower areas across the city.

Following her speech, during which she warned global leaders that "the world is on fire", Swedish activist Greta led a march around the city.

Getty Images Greta Thunberg leads the crowds through Bristol city centreGetty Images
After giving a speech Greta Thunberg led a march through Bristol city centre

It rained heavily throughout the event, leading to extensive damage to the grass on College Green.

Jon Usher, head of partnerships of Bristol-based charity Sustrans, set up a GoFundMe page after the march ended, aiming to raise £20,000.

By Sunday morning more than £9,000 had been donated.

Mr Usher, who attended the rally, said: "I did it knowing how important the green is to our staff as a place to go in the spring and summertime."

"I think there could also be an opportunity for additional wildflower/pollinator planting on College Green which would be a lovely legacy from Greta's visit to Bristol."