Co-op is spreading the Fairtrade message across Nottinghamshire

The celebrations coincided with the 25th anniversary of Fairtrade products hitting the shelves in the UK, with the Co-op having been there every step of the way.

Therefore, Central England Co-op was determined to spread the Fairtrade message to its members and customers, as well as educating people about the people who grow food, people who live in some of the poorest countries in the world and who are often exploited and badly paid.

The society did this through a mixture of fun events with a Fairtrade theme in their communities, as well as educational workshops and assemblies with schools and community groups.

Schools across Nottinghamshire were visited, including several across Mansfield and Ashfield.

The retailer’s Western MCC also made a donation of 12 Bala UK Fairtrade footballs to Vanarama National Women’s League side Chesterfield FC Women to mark the fortnight, while a special Fairtrade Conference was held in West Yorkshire.

Tanya Noon, the society’s membership and community relations officer, as well as colleagues and MCC members, delivered the Fairtrade message to hundreds of children through workshops, assemblies and special in-store ethical challenges.

Tanya said: “This year has been one of our best ever Fairtrade Fortnights and I’m confident we have really got people talking about Fairtrade and understanding its importance during its 25th anniversary year.

“We have had some really memorable events that have given our Members and communities a great time, while also ensuring the key messages around Fairtrade are always at the forefront of people’s minds.”

Find out how to become a Central England Co-operative member by calling 0800 0501601, emailing [email protected] or click here.

You can also follow Central England Co-operative on Twitter at @mycoopfood and F acebook at facebook.com/centralenglandcooperative.