TOWNSFOLK joined hundreds from across the UK in Westminster last week in a bid to get a fairer deal for Third World countries in global trade.

More than 20 Christians from the Spa travelled to London on Wednesday, June 19, to join the mass lobby outside Parliament, supporting the Trade Justice Movement - a coalition of pressure groups and charities calling for a fairer trade deal for poor countries.

Campaigners who joined together at the rally want world trading rules altered in favour of impoverished nations.

Currently, high import tariffs cripple struggling economies trying to import their goods into richer countries.

Protesters went to Westminster in a attempt to make their views known to MPs with the hope that they will back their cause at future International summits.

A member of St Nicholas' Church, in Ombersley Road, Rachel Charman, who attended the lobby, said it was a very worthwhile day.

"The day went really well. There were lots of people there and we found it very interesting and informative.

"It was good in the sense that it showed everyone just how very strongly people feel about fairer trading. I think we made our point well."

MP Peter Luff added:"I am delighted so many people from around the country, and from my own constituency, came to lobby Parliament on this vital subject.

"There is a moral obligation on us to help the poorest people of the world by helping them engage in the world economy on a fair footing."

Many town churches run Traidcraft stalls selling coffee, tea, sugar and chocolate.

This helps to ensure people making the goods get a fair price for the items.