MP Caroline Lucas explains her decision to join fracking protests at Balcombe

Green MP Caroline Lucas is arrested near Balcombe during the anti-fracking protests (Rex Features)

Green Party MP Caroline Lucas was among more than 30 people arrested when anti-fracking campaigners staged a series of protests across the UK.

The series of protests and direct action marked the first of two days of "mass civil disobedience" which campaigners have pledged to carry out to highlight their stance against fracking.

The 29 arrests in Balcombe ranged from a 15-year-old girl from Brighton, to a 66-year-old man from Hythe, Southampton, with the majority for public order offences, including refusing to leave and obstructing a public highway, and breaching the public order act.

A 17-year-old girl from South Brent, Devon was arrested for possession of an offensive weapon while a 23-year-old man from London and 26-year-old from Lancaster were held for assaulting a police officer.

Ms Lucas said she was trying to stop a process which could cause enormous damage for decades to come, undermining efforts to tackle climate change and posing risks to the local environment.

She added that she will find out the police's decision about whether to press charges next week.

PA