Packed audience for Leighton Buzzard screening of People's Emergency Briefing on climate and nature crisis
A full house of attendees of around 170 people — including local MP Alex Mayer — gathered at Leighton Buzzard Library Theatre on Thursday 4th June 2026 for a public screening of The People’s Emergency Briefing. The event was jointly organised by Leighton‑Linslade Town Council, South Bedfordshire Friends of the Earth, and Totally Leighton Buzzard.
The 50‑minute film, part of a nationwide programme supported by naturalist Chris Packham, aims to spark honest local conversations about the climate and nature crisis. Packham has encouraged communities across the UK to take part, saying the film “creates exactly the kind of honest local conversation we now urgently need… about the threat from climate and nature breakdown, but also about what we can do, together with our politicians, to build a better future.”
Following the screening, Christine Sheppard from South Bedfordshire Friends of the Earth facilitated an open discussion exploring what the issues raised in the film mean for Leighton Buzzard and the surrounding area. Attendees reflected on their immediate reactions, acknowledging the range of perspectives within the room while recognising that the impacts of climate change are shared by everyone.
A key outcome of the evening was a strong desire to share the film more widely — particularly in local schools, churches, and community venues — to broaden understanding and support constructive local action.
Edwina Osborne, from Totally Leighton Buzzard, said: “The Leighton Buzzard screening was a positive event. There was strong interest in ensuring the discussion does not end with one evening, but leads to continued local engagement. People were especially keen to see more screenings in schools, churches and elsewhere across the community.”
MP Alex Mayer emphasised her commitment to addressing climate change, highlighting her role as Chair of the cross‑government group on forests. She also celebrated local green initiatives, including the constituency’s major offshore wind turbine and solar farm. Mayer encouraged residents to write in support of climate action and to back calls for a televised national emergency briefing on the climate and nature crisis.
What’s next in Great Big Green Week
The screening is part of Leighton Buzzard’s wider Great Big Green Week programme, which continues throughout June with events focused on nature, skills, community action and local resilience. You can access the full programme of Great Big Green Week events at https://linktr.ee/leightonbuzzard or https://www.greatbiggreenweek.org and on.
Upcoming highlights include:
Green Joy in Unexpected Places photo competition - open now for entries via email or online
Eco Social — a relaxed community gathering for anyone interested in local climate and nature action at Crooked Crow Bar on Wednesday 17 June at 7.30pm
Eco Home Open Day - on Saturday 20 June - chance to see local home with solar panels and airsource heat pump - book via Eventbrite
Repair Café LB — the monthly community repair session helping residents fix household items, reduce waste and build practical skills on Saturday 27 June at the Royal British Legion from 10.30am to 1.30pm
Residents are encouraged to explore the full programme and take part in events across the month to keep the conversation — and the momentum — on climate action going.