The Energy and Climate Change Secretary marked World Evironment Day by visiting an iconic part of London's landscape in Woolwich to warn residents about climate change.

Amber Rudd made her first visit to the Thames Barrier as Energy and Climate Secretary to warn people of the dangers of rising sea levels.

The barrier has been successful in protecting 125 square kilometres of London from storm surges but Ms Rudd warned that climate change would increase the risk of these surges becoming larger and more damaging.

She said: "The Thames Barrier is an iconic part of London's landscape and one of our best protections.

"But barriers like this can only do so much - the world must act now to cut emissions and build a cleaner future.

"We need to take urgent and concrete action to protect our environment - because our lives and livelihoods depend on it."

The Thames Barrier spans 520 metres across the river near Woolwich and has 10 steel gates which can be raised into position to protect London from storm surges.

When raised, the main gates stand as high as a five storey building and as wide as the opening of Tower Bridge, with each main gate weighing 3,300 tonnes.