Extinction Rebellion are set to protest against an insurance company in Welwyn Garden City this weekend.

From 10am on Saturday (November 2), campaigners from environmental group will be outside the Howden Insurance branch in Stonehills.

Extinction Rebellion claims the insurer backs new and existing oil, gas and coal projects, and will make their feelings known with banners declaring "We are All Vulnerable - Stop Insuring Fossil Fuels", "Insure our Survival" and "Stop Insuring Climate Criminals".

The group has also accused Howden of "greenwashing", by declaring that they aim to be carbon neutral by 2030.

"We are here to expose Howden’s current practices which are aiding and abetting the fossil fuel industry’s expansion agenda," said an Extinction Rebellion spokesperson.

"We are saying to Howden’s that they, together with the rest of the insurance industry, have a unique opportunity to reduce fossil fuel emissions. This is because without insurance, big corporations can’t continue operating dirty energy projects.

"We need immediate action, and the insurance industry is well placed to bring this about. We ask that Howden will respond to our appeal to withdraw from any new fossil fuel projects.

"The most recent report from the climate science is really terrifying to be honest. It literally says we are on the brink of a climate and ecological disaster. We have no time to lose.

"The insurance industry holds the lever to bring about the action we so urgently need. We encourage them to expand their insurance of truly renewable energy sources."

The Welwyn Hatfield Times contacted Howden Insurance for comment, but did not receive a response.