Fairtrade group urges shoppers to 'make difference'

Hartlepool's Fairtrade Steering Group is urging residents to look out for the Fairtrade Mark when shopping

A Teesside town has seen its Fairtrade status extended for another three years.

Hartlepool's Fairtrade Steering Group said it was "delighted" that the status had been renewed.

The group promotes Fairtrade-certified goods to raise awareness of the exploitation and poor pay some food growers face.

It urged shoppers to buy Fairtrade products where possible.

Fairtrade Town status is awarded in recognition of an area's efforts to promote products which provide farmers in developing countries with a fair price.

The group's chair Martin Green said: “Hartlepool was the first town in the Tees Valley to achieve Fairtrade Town status back in 2005, so we have a strong track record of supporting the campaign.

“We are delighted to have had our status renewed and our next application isn’t now due until the end of 2026.”

The group is urging local residents to look out for the Fairtrade Mark at all times when shopping.

The mark is only used on products which meet certified Fairtrade standards and is a way for shoppers to support farmers from low-income countries.

'Make a difference'

Councillor Shane Moore, Hartlepool’s Ceremonial Mayor, praised Fairtrade Steering Group members for "consistently giving up their time" to promote the principles of fair trade.

Mr Moor said: “Their ongoing commitment and dedication reflects well on them and Hartlepool as a whole, and I would like to congratulate them on the success of their renewal application.

“I would support their call for people to look out for the Fairtrade Mark when shopping – buying certified goods really can help to make a difference.”