MARCHERS took to the streets of Southampton to advocate fair trade.

About 50 people gathered in London Road and started the walk to WestQuay shopping centre to the sound of a samba band.

Most were activists from Make Poverty History and the march was the first in a series of events being held in the city to mark the Global Week of Action for Trade Justice.

Outside the shopping centre they staged an "unfair" tug of war to demonstrate what they claim is the injustice of world trade rules.

Chris Bleumel, one of the Southampton organisers, said: "With 30,000 people dying around the world every day because they cannot afford the basics of life, Make Poverty History is an urgent campaign."

More events are planned throughout the week including a panel of election candidates from different political parties being questioned about their policies on world poverty tomorrow at 7.30pm at the Central Baptist Church, Devonshire Road, Southampton.