Protestors in Newcastle City Centre were joined by Hairy Biker Si King on Saturday (October 1) lunchtime as they gathered to campaign against soaring energy prices.

The protest, which was part of national movement ‘Enough is Enough’, coincided with postal and rail strikes, and the day the £2,500 energy price guarantee came into place.

Those gathering at Grey’s Monument in Newcastle were joined by Hairy Biker Si King, who delivered an impassioned speech to the crowds saying ‘the change is coming’.

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The County Durham born TV chef said: “From this place today, go home, go to work, go to your communities and give people hope.

The Northern Echo: Huge crowds gathered in Newcastle's City Centre on Saturday (October 1) afternoon. Picture: NNPHuge crowds gathered in Newcastle's City Centre on Saturday (October 1) afternoon. Picture: NNP (Image: NNP)

“The change is coming, but that change is up to us.

“We, the people, have the power, the compassion, the love, the kindness and the understanding and intellect to design and live in a world that cars about people rather than money and wealth.

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“Those with a different world view will undermine, lie, scheme and deceive, so go with cation, with open arms and open hearts and in the knowledge that you’re not alone. Because we, the people, walk every step of the way with you.

“Enough is enough.”

The Northern Echo: Hairy Biker Si King speaking at the protest. Picture: NNPHairy Biker Si King speaking at the protest. Picture: NNP (Image: NNP)

The TV star drew huge applause from the crowd as he delivered the speech.

He was joined by North of Tyne Mayor Jamie Driscoll and Wansbeck Labour MP Ian Lavery at the rally.

The Northern Echo: King spoke from the base of Grey's Monument. Picture: NNPKing spoke from the base of Grey's Monument. Picture: NNP (Image: NNP)

It came as picket lines at railway stations including Newcastle Central as workers walked out in the latest stage of industrial action.

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