Morgan Trowland, 40 of Islington, was sentenced at Southend Crown Court today after his actions shut the crossing for nearly 48 hours last October.

At the time of the protest he said: “As a professional civil engineer, each year as I renew my registration, I commit to acting within our code of ethics, which requires me to safeguard human life and welfare and the environment.

“Our government has enacted suicidal laws to accelerate oil production: killing human life and destroying our environment.

“I can’t challenge this madness in my desk job, designing bridges, so I’m taking direct action, occupying the QE2 bridge until the government stops all new oil.”

Trowland was sentenced alongside accomplice Marcus Decker 34, of no fixed address, who was jailed for two years and seven months.

Essex Police Detective Chief Inspector Louise Metcalfe, who oversaw the investigation, said: “Trowland and Decker’s actions were completely unacceptable. They were dangerous and they were incredibly disruptive.

“We know they saw their actions as protest – they were not. They caused danger and disruption to many.

“Thankfully, our specially trained officers were able bring the incident to a safe conclusion.”

Stephanie Golder, a Just Stop Oil spokesperson, said:“Just Stop Oil will not be deterred by these draconian sentences.

“Where they imprison one of us, ten more will take their place. When they imprison ten of us, one hundred will stand to take their place. We must unite against this genocidal government and be brave.”