HARTLEPOOL’S status as a Fairtrade town has been renewed for a further two years by the Fairtrade Foundation.

Next year marks the 10th anniversary since it became a Fairtrade town and to mark the milestone campaigners will be producing a special brochure highlighting where products can be purchased.

Goods with the Fairtrade mark guarantee that a fair price goes to the producer regardless of world markets, ethical and environmental standards are followed and that a social premium is paid to cooperative groups with the workers deciding how to spend it to benefit the local community.

Martin Green, chairman of the Hartlepool Fairtrade Steering Group, said: “It is very reassuring that Hartlepool has renewed its Fairtrade town status.

“In early 2015 we will be producing a brochure to promote Fairtrade products being sold in Hartlepool so would urge shops and cafes to get in touch.

“We’d also like to attract more businesses and community group representatives onto our Steering Group so if anyone is interested we would love to hear from them.”

Councillor Stephen Akers-Belcher, the Mayor of Hartlepool, said: “I would like to thank the members of the group for their efforts in driving this initiative forward. Without their hard work and dedication it wouldn’t be the success that it is.

“It gives me great satisfaction that Hartlepool has re-affirmed its compliance with the Fairtrade town criteria and is therefore playing its part to ensure that people around the world, many in very deprived areas, are being paid a fair price for producing goods such as tea and coffee that we consume every day.”

Anyone wanting to get involved with the Hartlepool Fairtrade Steering Group should contact Martin Green on 01429-275091 or email magreenbq@aol.com