Fairtrade status success

Hannah Reed, National Fairtrade manager commented: "This is a truly impressive record of achievements .... sincere thanks and congratulations to everyone involved - inspirational stuff."

Meeting with committee members at Espresso cafe in Cooden Sea Road, Deputy Mayor Councillor Bridget George said: "It is so pleasing to be involved and witness receipt of the letter and acknowledge all that has been done.

"It is indeed an achievement for which the people of Bexhill must be truly proud and continue to be involved in."

The coffee at Espresso is sourced from Aceh province in Sumatra, Indonesia. The Cooperative was certified in 2000 and now has 1970 members . By fair trading, they have improved their water, and education , and are 100% organic with farmers receiving training in other agricultural areas.

Committee member Jack Doherty said: "A farmer, Mr Salim, wrote " Fairtrade is not only about money - it is protecting our ecosystem and community health and education . Thanks to fair trade, one of my children is in medical school and the other is in midwifery school ."

Chris Lucey said: " Many thanks to the 18 shops and 11 catering outlets who provide Bexhill people with the opportunity to buy Fairtrade products."

Lesley Shareif congratulated the seven schools involved and 20 faith Communities actively promoting Fairtrade principles and ideas while Jack thanked the 34 workplaces using ethical products for staff breaks and entertainment.

There will be a Fairtrade coffee morning at St Mary Magdalene's hall , Magdalen Road, 10.30-12 midday on Friday November 21.