THORNBURY’S status as a Fairtrade town has been renewed for another two years.

This follows the town's success in demonstrating an ongoing commitment to promoting the principles of Fairtrade, which makes sure farmers are properly paid for their work instead of being exploited, while also considering the impact on the environment.

Thornbury was first awarded Fairtrade status in 2004 and the town’s Fairtrade Steering Group promotes the brand to both community groups and businesses so that they buy products made by farmers who are protected by the scheme.

To be a Fairtrade town, there must be a wide availability of Fairtrade products in shops and catering outlets, strong support from local people, businesses, the council, faith groups and schools.

Thornbury has now committed to an action plan which includes the steering group encouraging cafés, restaurants and bars to host breakfast’s using Fairtrade and local produce.

Town councillor Gail Whitehead, who has been instrumental in Thornbury having Fairtrade status, said: “The support for Fairtrade in town has been very strong over the last 10 years."

A number of volunteers are regularly involved in the various Fairtrade projects around the town, including students from the Castle School and a group of Thornbury churches.

Adam Gardner, communities campaigns manager at the Fairtrade Foundation, praised the work in the town.

He said: “We’re so pleased that Thornbury has renewed their Fairtrade status and laid out clear exciting goals to take Fairtrade further."

For further information on Thornbury’s Fairtrade campaign or to get involved, email gail_whitehead@yahoo.com or visit the campaign’s Facebook page by searching for 'Thornbury Fairtrade'.