WYEDEAN Wholefoods in Gloucerster Road, Ross on Wye, were the recent recipients of the Fairtrade Supporter of the Month award, presented by the Ross Fairtrade Town steering group.

Gillian Smith, Secretary of the Ross Fairtrade Town group commented: "We have noticed over the years that Wyedean Whlefoods supplies Fairtrade products that are not easily found elsewhere in Ross. We are fortunate that we still have a variety of independent stores that like to be a bit different from the supermarkets, and with the enjoyment of home baking making a strong come-back, it is lovely to be able to source things like Fairtrade golden syrup, black treacle, cocoa or cooking chocolate without having to go too far afield.

"As well as Ross and Monmouth there are several branches in the Forest of Dean – Coleford, Cinderford and Newent – thus providing a local service."

She added: " Wyedean Wholefoods has helped our team enormously by publicising the Fairtrade logo in their store. When people recognise this logo on a product, they can be assured that the producers have received a fair price for their goods and have not been exploiting child or bonded labour. So we ask for people to look for this mark whenever they are buying goods that are produced in developing countries – remembering that trade is better than aid."

Wyedean Wholefoods are said to be 'delighted' with their award, and have stated their intention to keep on supporting and sourcing products that are Fairtrade, organic, local or environmentally friendly wherever possible.