St Paul's Protestors Must Go - Judge Rules

Occupy Protestors were told they had to dismantle their camp in the churchyard of St Pauls Cathedral today.

The lengthy ruling was delivered at 2.30pm by Mr Justice Lindblom, to a packed court 25 at the High Court in London.

The decision came after a five day hearing in December, during which the judge visited the camp which had established itself outside St Pauls in October after initial attempts to set up outside the nearby London Stock Exchange.

Protestors had gathered at the courts to hear the decision, some of them tied a banner reading ‘Occupy Justice’ to railings outside the building.

The judgement sparked scenes of disappointment outside the court, where scores had gathered to hear the outcome.

Rev Giles Fraser, the former Canon Chancellor of the Cathedral who stepped down because of the furore surrounding the protest was among the crowds waiting for news at the court.

Using social media site Twitter Rev Fraser said he was at the court to hear the judgement. “Whatever happens, the voice of protest must be heard.” He said, adding: “You can’t evict an idea.”

Christians who support the Occupy camp have pledged to surround the site with a ring of prayer if attempts are made to forcibly remove the protestors. However this may yet be some time off, as protestors have said they are very likely to appeal against the judgement.