INSULATE Britain protesters were dragged off the M25 by angry drivers this morning, with one woman nearly run over as the group blocked roads for the 13th time.

Clashes between climate activists and motorists broke out after demonstrators blocked the junction to St Clements Way and London Road in Thurrock at about 8.30am.

Drivers were seen ripping banners out of the hands of protesters while others dragged them from the road. A female protester was almost run over after stopping in front of a car.

Essex Police said that 35 people involved in the protests had been arrested. 

It was the 13th action by the group in the past four weeks as part of its ongoing campaign of civil disobedience to pressure ministers to insulate Britain’s homes, starting with those of the poorest.

But today’s clashes appear to show a growing intolerance towards the campaign. 

HGV drivers said that the blockages could worsen the fuel crisis, because lorries could run out of petrol before being able to fill up.

But Insulate Britain member Dr Diana Warner insisted that many people have “gone out of their way to thank us,” including some drivers.