Several Insulate Britain protesters have been arrested this morning before demonstrators were able to cause much nuisance in an attempt to block the M25.

It is understood there was a total of 13 protesters at junction 23 of the M25 (Bignells Corner, South Mimms) this morning at 7.45am.

Hertfordshire Constabulary has said that officers are at the scene and working to resolve the disruption “as quickly as possible”.

Times Series: Officers detaining a protester (Photo: PA)Officers detaining a protester (Photo: PA)

The force explained that several people have been arrested – but an Insulate Britain spokesperson has confirmed that nine demonstrators have received committal papers in relation to an injunction granted to National Highways to curb eco-activist roadblocks.

Diana Warner, 62, a retired GP, said: “One of the important reasons for coming out today was to say we’re all together. It’s not just nine.”

A group of officers have been lifting activists from the pavement beside the road and putting them in the back of a van.

More than a dozen officers and seven police vehicles are on scene.

Some passers-by were heard shouting expletives at the protesters.