CAMPAIGNERS opposing the expansion of Heathrow Airport are facing legal action to stop their planned week of protest.

Heathrow Airport Ltd has sent injunction documents to the chairman of HACAN, John Stewart and chairwoman of No Third Runway Action Group (NoTRAG), Geraldine Nicholson.

The company intends to ban the two leaders and everyone in the organisations they represent from attending the Climate Camp for Action and also hold them responsible for anyone from the campaign groups who gets involved in the event which is due to start on August 14.

Mr Stewart said: "I can't believe they have done this, it is stupid. The number of people involved in Climate Camp it affects is huge and we are going to fight this all the way."

A spokesman for BAA, said: "Heathrow Airport Ltd has applied for an injunction to protect the operation of the airport and the safety of passengers and staff against the planned direct action by environmental activists, between 14-21 August.

"During the summer holiday period up to 200,000 people pass through Heathrow daily including many families and children. It is these people who would suffer as a result of any unlawful or irresponsible behaviour aimed at disrupting the smooth operation of the airport.

"We respect people's right to protest within the bounds of the law and the airport byelaws and would invite protestors to similarly respect the right of passengers travelling through Heathrow."

Mr Stewart and Mrs Nicholson, along with Leo Murray and Joss Garman of Plane Stupid, are to appear at the High Court where the injunction will be heard.