A HUNGER for Justice weekend at St Mary’s Church, Fordingbridge was hailed a success, with calls for New Forest West MP Desmond Swayne to push for commitments to take action on climate change in the Tory party.

David Pain, Christian Aid’s director of supporter and community partnerships spoke about the impact of climate change on some of the world’s poorest communities.

Mr Swayne was unable to attend but issued a statement: “UK aid from the British people is providing £3.87 billion through our international climate fund to help developing countries adapt to climate change.

“We are also helping them to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions from deforestation and degradation. This is vital work because climate change disproportionately harms the world's poorest people.”

The Hunger for Justice weekend was part of a nationwide campaign by hundreds of churches urging their local politicians to ensure their party includes strong climate change action in their manifestos. Prayers were offered for people living with the effects of climate change around the world.

Gary Philbrick, Rector of St Mary’s Fordingbridge, said: “It was great for our congregation to hear about Christian Aid’s campaign for strong action on climate change.

“We know how important it is to tackle this problem.”