Fairtrade in town (From Free Press Series)

Fairtrade in town

MONMOUTH has taken the initial steps in becoming the first Fairtrade town in the county.

The town council voted to play its part by supporting the scheme, which aims to give producers a fair price for the produce they grow.

At last Monday's meeting of the council, the mayor Cllr Anthea Dewhurst outlined the benefits of becoming a Fairtrade town and said it was a great privilege for Monmouth to be taking the first steps in achieving Fairtrade status.

She said: "It is a matter of great excitement and pride that this council has supported the idea so decisively.

"There has been a series of crowded meetings and a lively demonstration in Agincourt Square which shows pride in Monmouth overwhelmingly want to tackle poverty in third-world countries."

The Fairtrade mark guarantees the producer has received a fair deal for his product.

Being a Fairtrade town means that people will be able to buy the specially labelled products at local supermarkets and cafes and shops.

The profits of which will go directly to farmer and his community.

Cllr Lee Robson said: "This scheme is well worth supporting and we should think about an presenting an award for the best Fairtrade retailer in Monmouth."