CAMPAIGNERS from Christian Aid in Darlington have presented MP Alan Milburn with pledges from people opposed to world trade rules.

The campaigners are working to change the rules relating to world trade and the effect it has on people in less developed countries.

The charity is hoping to change the rules so that poorer countries can benefit from trade agreements.

Hundreds of people living in Darlington have signed cards pledging their support for a change in the trade rules.

Yesterday, the cards were presented to the Health Secretary when he was visiting his constituency.

Davie Rose, chairman of Darlington Christian Aid, said: "Each person signing a pledge card is committing him or herself to act positively to change the rules that given international trade, so that those rules work positively to eradicate poverty, to protect the environment and to ensure equal access to life in all its fullness to everyone and not just the rich.

"By acting together we can make a real difference and exert powerful pressure for change."