THE TWO towns of Malton and Norton have officially been declared Fairtrade.

For the past two years, local campaigners have been tirelessly promoting tea, coffee and chocolate, sold under the international trademark.

Goods bearing the logo guarantee that growers have been given a fair price for their products and company profits are ploughed back into social projects.

Set up in 2006 by the “Church Together in Southern Ryedale” initiative, the Malton and Norton group who will join Pickering and Scarborough, in sharing Fairtrade success.

Alison Hardwick said they launched their bid with a ‘big brew’ event and since then they have attracted backing from town councils, local traders and residents.

She said: “We are absolutely delighted that we have been granted Fairtrade status but this is just the start. It’s heartening that in the confirmation of our success the Fairtrade Foundation praised our “excellent” application. “Through our campaigning we have increased awareness of Fairtrade but we have to keep the momentum to hold on to the status. We are so grateful for the support of local councils, retailers, businesses, community and faith groups and individuals who have helped the campaign so far.” A highlight of the campaign was a visit from Uganda farmer Sam Magona who travelled to the UK last year to talk to residents about the impact Fairtrade has on developing countries.

He said in the past growers who sell their raw goods to large multi-national buyers, were paid a lower price, trapping families into a cycle of poverty.

In September, campaigners will be presented with an official certificate to mark their achievement at a special ceremony.

Businesses who want to sell Fairtrade goods and groups interested in the movement can contact Alison Hardwick on (01653) 691290 or email alisonhardwick@btopenworld.com.