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Make it history

From the archive, first published Friday 1st Jul 2005.

Halesowen folk helped start making poverty history last Saturday, as the town centre became a mass of white balloons and wristbands.

Over 500 people signed a petition to fight for trade justice, debt relief and better aid in the third world in Summers' Square on June 25.

Many more flocked to the farmer's market to buy fairly traded goods at the event organised by Halesowen's Global Justice Group.

Church leaders, councillors and Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP Sylvia Heal all spoke at the event.

At 11am, Halesowen's Parish Church bell rang every three seconds, to represent the children across the world dying from extreme poverty.

Global Justice's Secretary, Sue Dobson, said the event was a `fantastic success'.

She said: "We had a big clock face to remind people of children dying every three seconds, and we laid pairs of children's shoes by the church to represent them.

"It was quite moving to see people stop shopping and think about it on a busy Saturday.

"People in Halesowen are obviously concerned about what is happening, and we will continue to raise awareness in the area."

She said the petition would be taken to the Make Poverty History rally this weekend in Edinburgh, where the G8 world leader's summit is being held.

Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP Sylvia Heal will then take the signatures to Westminster.

The banner is also staying in place on the tower of Halesowen Parish Church.

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