Geldof lights 'flame for justice'

Bob Geldof will light a “flame for justice” today as people across the UK are encouraged to hold candle-lit vigils during the G8 summit.

As part of the campaign organised by the charity Christian Aid, Geldof, accompanied by a lone piper and an African drummer, will light the flame at Cramond Causeway just outside Edinburgh this afternoon.

Representatives from Scotland’s faith communities, development groups, unions, student unions, youth and campaign groups will also build a cairn in memory of the 30,000 children who die every day from extreme poverty.

Martin Drewry, head of campaigns at Christian Aid, said: “Holding a vigil is a great way to encourage campaigners across the country. Vigils can be for an hour or the duration of the summit and involve hundreds of people or just a few.

“Nearly a quarter-of-a-million people were in Edinburgh for the Make Poverty History rally and we are now asking those who could not make it to join in.

“We want to send a clear message to G8 leaders that we are all still watching you.”