Fairtrade success for town fifth time around

Fairtrade Fortnight outside Waitrose in Berkhamsted.

Berkhamsted has successfully renewed its Fairtrade status once again thanks to the dedicated work of the town’s steering group.

Berkhamsted Fairtrade Town Steering Group were sent a letter of commendation from the Fairtrade Foundation after the latest renewal.

The town was first awarded Fairtrade status in 2007, meaning the community’s businesses and organisations commit to using and selling products – such as tea and coffee – that have the licensed Fairtrade mark.

Group chair Angela Morris said: “This did not happen without a lot of hard work.

“We do not just sit on our laurels – we have to show the foundation that we are moving forward with our campaigning.”

Angela says the group hopes that Hemel will one day receive Fairtrade status so that, along with Tring, the three towns can form a Fairtrade borough.

The Fairtrade mark means the farmers producing the products are given a fair wage, allowing them to sustain their business and make a living.

As part of their work, the group is running a competition to get schools involved in the Fairtrade commitment.

A prize of £250 will be awarded to the school who has made the most progress towards Fairtrade School status by January 29 next year.

There are three stages to the school award: FairAware, FairActive and FairAchiever.

Each one helps pupils learn about Fairtrade and get actively involved in its promotion.

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