Rye supportingFairtrade event

Richard gave an inspiring talk to an enthusiastic audience at St Mary’s Centre, which included Rye Deputy Mayor, Councillor Bernardine Fiddimore, a long-time supporter of Fairtrade.

Rye was awarded status as a Fair Trade Town in 2009 after meeting certain strict criteria, having to pass five challenges set by the Foundation and getting Rye council to pass a resolution to support Fairtrade

Local supporter Ann Hamilton said: “This year’s campaign focuses on bananas, but there is so much more.

“Drawing on his experience of working with producer groups and internationally-known firms Richard showed how buying Fairtrade certified products enables producers in developing countries to bring basics such as clean water, primary medical care and education to their communities.

“A lot remains to be done, but consumers really can make a difference by choosing to buy Fairtrade.”

Members of the Fairtrade Town Steering Group were delighted to be joined at the Fair Trade information stand set up in Budgens on Saturday by our MP, Amber Rudd, who commented: “I am a huge fan and pleased to support the fantastic local campaign to promote Fair Trade products and to keep Rye’s status as a Fair Trade town. I am grateful to the Rye team led by Ann and Sheila who continue to make this a priority for our town. It was great to join them on the Fair Trade stand at Budgens.”

Members of the Rye Steering Group were back at Budgens again last Saturday, manning the Fairtrade information stand.