at the u.s. embassy, activist band 'seize the day' radicalised the audience (a bit), and then we had speeches from libdem norman baker, mep caroline lucas, and tory green advisor zak goldsmith among others. just after ms lucas had been telling us how climate change will never stop until we change the economic system we have, goldsmith came and told us how his party was going to do marvellous things while achieving sustainable economic growth - everyone clapped him politely.

the march set off for trafalgar square with a brass band, some guitarists and no less than three samba bands. the square was so full, the last few had to wait ages to get in. there was more entertainment, music and comedy, and a short film. there were probably some speeches earlier but i arrived late with the london samba school at the back of the march - they were very loud and very tight.

was it all worth it? well, some folk will certainly feel less alone in their caring, and some folk had a chance to network, but with just a few seconds on the news, i find myself wondering what else it might have achieved.

meanwhile, the police forward intelligence teams kept a close eye out for anyone who actually might start to make a difference. one person, previously involved in some powerful anti-militarist and environmental actions and commended in a high court appeal for his committment and real service to the community, was followed by two police for more than an hour before being stopped and searched. other activists were continually photographed as always.