TWO coachloads of churchgoers and environmentalists are travelling from Kidderminster to take part in next month's Make Poverty History march in Edinburgh.

The march, which was the brainchild of Bob Geldof, takes place ahead of the G8 summit of the world's eight richest nations at Glenegales in Scotland on Saturday, July 2.

Hundreds of thousands of people are expected to converge for the protest march, which is urging the dropping of Third World debt and for action on climate change.

Live 8 music concerts, featuring a host of top stars, are also being held in support of the initiative.

Transport for the Wyre Forest contingent going by coach is being arranged by church leaders and environmental group members and seats are expected to fill up fast.

Trade justice is another theme of the march, an issue addressed locally by members of Fairtrade, a movement that promotes fair prices for products made by people in poorer countries.

The organisation has been working towards accredited Fairtrade status for the towns of Kidderminster, Bewdley and Stourport.

Traidcraft products, which guarantee a fair income and conditions for Third World producers, have been made available in churches in Kidderminster, as well as stalls in the town's Swan Centre.

Anyone who wants to book a place on one of the coaches heading for the Edinburgh protest march will have to pay for their seats. Details are available from Vicky Dunn on 07815 295471, after 6pm.