Essex Greenpeace activists demonstrated at every Esso petrol station in the county during a day of protests.
The rallies were part of a two-year campaign against the company which Greenpeace claims is the worst environmental offender of all the oil companies.
All fuelled up - protesters outside the Esso petrol station on the A127 at Wickford Picture: MAXINE CLARKE
Group spokesman Shaun Qureshi said: "The protests were a legal and peaceful exercise in freedom of speech.
"Unlike other companies which spend money on alternative fuels, Esso concentrates solely on fossil fuels.
"We believe if we can get Esso to change its practices, other companies - which have already made efforts toward renewable energies - will increase their efforts."
Ironically, the protest group drove petrol-powered cars between the 45 stations, refuelling at garages other than Esso.
Mr Qureshi said: "We use any fuel other than Esso."
The Evening Echo was unable to contact anyone at Esso to comment about the protests.
Published Tuesday, May 27, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article