By Dave Lord

A “GLOBAL village” cafe in Auchterarder where visitors can focus their minds on the problems of the developing world is gearing up for a very busy G8 week.

A tiny part of the town has been transformed into a piece of Africa, complete with traditional hut and a replica wind-powered water pump.

Local minister the Rev Michael Shewan hopes the cafe will focus the minds of locals and visitors alike on the desperate need to send aid to the Third World.

He said, “Rather than shutting down, like a lot of local businesses, churches are opening up to promote hospitality and a welcome to residents and visitors alike, for campaigners, security members and the media. We see this as an ideal opportunity to help Make Poverty History while providing hospitality and somewhere for people to go.”