Fairtrade fun

Titled Wake Up And Smell The Coffee, the group will be focussing on the work of Fairtrade producers and the difference Fairtrade makes to their lives.

Robert Eggleston, who was re-elected as chairman of the town’s Fairtrade steering group at its recent AGM, said: “September is part of the harvest season, and it just seemed appropriate to stage a Festival in this period.”

“We will be holding a number of events from Friday, September 16 to Sunday, September 18. There will be a photographic exhibition and short films looking at the lives of Fairtrade producers. We will also be giving away free sample packs of Fairtrade products to local cafes, restaurants and pubs.

“There is also our continuing commitment to linking arts and entertainment with Fairtrade promotion. On Friday, September 16 we will have a folk gig which will be headlined by award winning duo, Belshazzar’s Feast and supported by award-winning newcomer Sam Carter. On Saturday, September 17 we will be holding a coffee morning and then an evening Harvest Festival Ceilidh with Kate’s Kitchen Band. All these events take place in the Martlets Hall, Burgess Hill and tickets are available from the Box Office or by calling 01444 242888 or online at www.freedom-leisure.co.uk.”

Robert added: “The Burgess Hill Fairtrade Town Group will have a busy 12 months as it must seek renewal of the town’s Fairtrade Town status and also stage an even bigger festival in Fairtrade Fortnight in March 2012. Plans for the Festival are at an advanced stage and will be announced soon.”