And during his tour he said he was 100 per cent behind the campaign to stop opencast mining at the site near Douglas.

Mr Harvie said: "The local community has found that the democratic process is failing them, so this protest is very helpful.

"When people make a stand like this, it is far more helpful than
writing a letter to an MSP or MP.

"It is a more creative use of this pocket of land than digging it up and burning coal."

South Lanarkshire councillors approved plans for the Mainshill Wood opencast mine in February.

Around 1.7 million tonnes of coal and 160,000 tonnes of fireclay will be extracted at the site over a five year period, with the promise of 93 jobs being created.

Protestors remained adamant this week that they would stay on site for ''as long as it takes'' to ensure the plans do not go ahead.

And a bitter row has erupted between them and Douglas and Angus Estates about a power cable being dug up on the land.

For more information on the on-going battle, pick up a copy of this week's Carluke and Lanark Gazette which is in the shops now.