Olympic gold medallist Etienne Stott - who was arrested after taking part in a climate change protest - has said he's prepared to give up his achievements to do the right thing.
Mr Stott MBE, who took home a gold medal in the canoe slalom event in the London 2012 Olympics, was arrested in London on Sunday April, 21.
The Nottingham-based canoeist had been participating in the Extinction Rebellion protests in the capital, and was arrested by the Met Police for 'failing to comply with a condition' under Section 14 of the Public Order Act and for the 'wilful obstruction of a highway'.
He was released under investigation at around 4am on Monday, April 22.
Speaking to Nottinghamshire Live, the canoeist said he was prepared to trade his freedom, as well as his achievements, to "be on the right side of history".
Mr Stott said that overall he had received positive support for his decision and discussed how he felt his role had adapted to be able to take part.
He said: "As an Olympian and a canoeist, I know I am a role model and I visit hundreds of schools, to discuss children's ambitions for the future.But it was becoming increasingly difficult to discuss, when their future is so uncertain.
"I couldn't not tell the truth. I have been privileged with this platform by the British public, and I want to use that wisely.
"I am not advocating anyone getting arrested, but I was acting in accordance with what needed to happen.
"People may disagree with the method, but as long as we avoid this catastrophe, it's my view that it was right."
Mr Stott was awarded an MBE in the 2013 New Year's Honours for services to canoeing.
"My responsibility as an upstanding citizen is to do the best for my community," he added. "Some people have said these things [protesting and being in a public position] do not mix, but others see it as my commitment.
"This is the most meaningful thing I can do with my life. London 2012 Olympics was amazing and it was right for me then - I am hoping and praying that I am also right now.
"I have had a great life, but I'm prepared to trade those things to be on the right side of history and contribute to an important cause."
Speaking about his experience on the day he was arrested, Mr Stott said: "I spent six months building up to that moment.
"[The protest] was calm, peaceful and dignified and I was there with a clear mind. I knew my purpose and I was ready to accept responsibility.
"I was prepared to trade conveniences and freedom for the cause."
Extinction Rebellion protesters will carry out more road blocks in the future
Mr Stott spent the night in a London police station, and was met by fellow Extinction Rebellion protesters when he was let out.
"They made sure I was okay, as with anyone else who was arrested," he added. "It made me feel as though my actions were valued.
"This is for the whole planet and I thought about my decision to be visible in that way, extremely hard.
"But I felt I had to address this climate emergency - it's not just for disruption, it's to help people.
"People have asked me if it's right, but I believe it's not right not to take action. It was not something I did lightly, it wasn't just for fun, and it will affect my life."
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