An Extinction Rebellion protester climbed the Christmas tree bound for Trafalgar Square during its cutting ceremony in Norway.
Norway’s NRK reported the demonstration was held against British and Norwegian oil extraction.
The ceremony is a long-standing tradition in which Norway gifts a Christmas tree to London each year as a gesture of thanks for Britain’s support during the Second World War.
The protester was back on the ground by 9.30am UK time, though it remains unclear whether he climbed down voluntarily or was brought down.
Oslo’s mayor, Anne Lindboe, said: “I have to admit I was pretty surprised when I saw unwanted Christmas decorations in the tree.”
Since 1947, a ceremony has been held in Oslo to cut down the tree, which is then transported to London.
The tradition involves officials from both the UK and Norway, and the tree is decorated with vertical lights in a traditional Norwegian style before its lighting ceremony in December.
Electric vehicles are being used for land transport in both Norway and England starting with a 180km drive from the forest to the port of Brevik.
It is then transported on a routine shipping route to the UK before arriving in Trafalgar Square.
This year’s tree will be lit on December 4 from 5pm, with the switch-on at 6pm.
Lord Mayor of Westminster, Councillor Paul Dimoldenberg said: “It is a huge privilege to be a part of this wonderful tradition and on behalf of the City of Westminster and London, I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the people of Oslo and Norway for this wonderful gift.
“People sometimes overlook the meaning behind the tree, but we must never forget the importance of friendship and solidarity during uncertain times. I have been taken aback by the care and passion that goes into preparing the tree and this year is no exception- it will look magnificent in Trafalgar Square.”
Mayor of Oslo, Anne Lindboe said: “We are very happy to share Ever Oslo with London. In a world marked by instability, with conflicts and crises in many countries, symbols of friendship and hope become especially important.
“The fact that we are gathered here to mark a 78-year-old tradition in this harmonic and scenic setting should not be taken for granted.”
