A fair way to buy and sell in the town

The Fairtrade Foundation officially gave Potton the title of Fairtrade Town on Thursday, July 26.

Potton town councillor Andy Hopkins, who is a member of Potton’s Fairtrade steering group, said: “We are all really pleased that Potton’s become the first Fairtrade town in the area.”

He hopes that this will push other towns in the area towards becoming Fairtrade towns as well.

To achieve Fairtrade status Potton had to have the support of Potton Town Council, sell at least four Fairtrade product ranges, be supported by local organisations, raise awareness in the media and at events and set up a steering group.

Andy said: “It shows that the town as a community is looking to improve lives in developing countries. They are getting fair money for what they are selling.”

The process began when Tim Sidaway, Jo Gibb and Jenny Ream created Potton for Cotton bags and delivered one to each house in the town to increase the community interest in Fairtrade goods.

Over the last year Andy and Jo have championed the application and ensured that local businesses sell Fairtrade products.

The Co-op store allowed them to display their Faitrade products at the Four Seasons Market.

And Potton Lower School had a visit from Fairtrade banana farmer from the Windward Isles.

Andy added: “It’s brilliant news that we are there but it’s only the start. It’s hard work and we have to reapply next year and every two years after that.

“We’ve got to be continually moving forward with it.”

The group hope to involve more people in the community including the schools and for more Fairtrade goods to be sold in the town.

Andy added that the project is really lucky to have the support of groups and businesses including the town council, Co-op, the cafe in the market square, St Mary’s Church and The Coach House.

Should other towns in the area become Fairtrade Towns? Email [email protected]