PEOPLE from across the region gathered in York in what was believed to be the biggest ever anti-fracking march held in Yorkshire.

Members of fracking groups from across the North-East and North Yorkshire - along with individuals from across the country- gathered at Clifford’s Tower on Saturday, from where they marched through the city to York Minster.

There, they listened to speeches from members of local community groups and other anti-fracking campaigners.

Graham Martin, who helped organise the walk, said the turnout had exceeded their expectations. Organisers of the march estimated in the region of 3,000 people took part.

However police gave a more conservative figure and said the main group peaked at just over 600 - although some may have attended at different areas.

Russell Scott, of Frack Free North Yorkshire, said: "People are now realising that with the whole of Yorkshire is covered in fracking licences, fracking is now on everyone's doorstep."

The peaceful rally was held in the wake of the North Yorkshire County Council's decision to allow fracking in Kirby Misperton.

The decision is being challenged by Frack Free Ryedale and Friends of the Earth, who are seeking a judicial review. The application to frack received 4,375 objections and 36 letters of support. Councillors voted by seven votes to four to approve the plans.

John Ashton, who was the government's special representative for Climate Change from 2006 to 2012, told the rally outside York Minster: "You can be in favour of fixing the climate. Or you can be in favour of exploiting shale gas. But you can't be in favour of both at the same time."

Peter Allen from Frack Free Ryedale also addressed the crowd outside York Minster, stating: "If we wish to preserve this county and this country as a healthy place for our children and grandchildren to live in, then this is a cause worth fighting for - and that is why I am here.”