I WAS delighted to hear recently that Poole has been awarded Fairtrade Town status.

I know that this has been an aim for many years and has involved many businesses, schools and individuals putting in the time and energy to make it happen.

In order to get the award, a town has to fulfil five criteria, including a proportion of cafes and retailers selling Fairtrade products, the support of the local council, active involvement of faith groups and schools.

When you buy Fairtrade products such as sugar, chocolate and coffee, you can be sure that your money is helping towards decent working conditions and better prices for farmers and workers.

And these days the range of products available is much wider.

According to the Fairtrade Foundation, which oversees the use of the Fairtrade mark, there are more than 4500 FT products, including flowers, cotton and gold.

Given that Poole’s early prosperity was built on trade with other nations, I think it’s fitting that the town should continue to take a stand for global justice.

I urge readers to lend their support by choosing Fairtrade when doing their shopping.

HARRIET STEWART-JONES

Victoria Crescent, Parkstone, Poole

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