Town's Fairtrade battle continues (From Gazette Series)

Town's Fairtrade battle continues

FAIRTRADE is often cause supported by high-profile celebrities such as Coldplay frontman Chris Martin, who urges people to fight the corner of third-world producers by writing messages on his knuckles.

To one local group, however, the quest to promote ethical goods in Cam and Dursley is just as important - minus the top-ten hits.

Over the past two week the area's Fairtrade Coalition launched a range of programmes to highlight Fairtrade Fortnight, which ended today.

The events promoted the benefits of ethical goods - when workers and small producers in the developing world have not been exploited.

It coincided with the group's attempts to ensure Cam and Dursley retain their status as Fairtrade towns, which expires on June 1.

Su Chard, a Fairtrade coalitiion organiser, said: "We've been working hard to promote Fairtrade goods throughout the area over the last few months as part of its special status.

"We've taken the opportunity to contact people during this fortnight to get them involved and see how we can take steps forward.

"These include making a directory of shops and businesses who use ethical products and lobbying Tesco in Cam to start stocking goods like Fairtrade sugar."

The coalition has also donated two balls, produced at sustainable factories which do not use child labour, to Dursley Rugby Club.

Added Su: "People must realise that by using one Fairtrade product they are making a powerful statement. It's a very simple way to help make poverty history."

Dursley's Old Spot Pub has joined the campaign after being declared a Fairtrade venue. It will serve ethical goods like tea, coffee and sugar in its restaurant and is considering adding beer and wine to the list.

Steve Herbert, the pub's landlord, said: "We've always been aware that growers and producers don't get a fair price for their goods.

"By paying a little bit extra for our goods we can make a real difference. We've now got a catalogue and will be exploring the possibility of stocking more Fairtrade products."

For more information contact Su Chard on 01453 546049 or e-mail such@cama.wannado.co.uk