At a time when world news seems to be dominated by stories about conflict in overseas countries coupled with pictures of distraught families, it is worth remembering that in many developing parts of the world, there is good news. None more so than for those farmers and producers who have been embraced by the Fairtrade movement.

In August 2015 the then very young Melrose and District Fairtrade Group achieved Fairtrade Town status for the area. Through its continued local action, this was granted renewal by the Fairtrade Foundation in October 2016. Since that time group members have worked tirelessly to continue raising local awareness of the benefits of Fairtrade for those working and living in developing parts of the world.

It is therefore very important and gratifying to see a well-respected local organisation give recognition to the fact that Melrose is designated a Fairtrade Town. The Melrose Rotary Group has decided that their upcoming fund raising coffee morning should be a Fairtrade event. With support from the Melrose Co-op and the Melrose Fairtrade Group, this will be an opportunity to socialise and enjoy a cup of Fairtrade tea or coffee along with a selection of tray bakes made with Fairtrade ingredients. This is an important fund raising opportunity

For local Rotarians that enables them to support a range of good causes during the forthcoming year.

In addition to refreshments there will be an opportunity to see some of the work of the Fairtrade Group over the past years and the Melrose Co-op; who are donating tea, coffee and baking ingredients; will showcase a selection of their current range of Fairtrade products.

Rotarian Peter Carter, who is organising the coffee morning said: “Melrose Rotary Group are very pleased to be able to work with the Melrose Fairtrade Group and together we can demonstrate how local collaboration can bring great benefits to others and improve their quality of life through trade, not aid.”

The secretary of the Melrose group, Dave Potts, added: “This collaboration with local Rotarians is an excellent form of recognition of Melrose as a Fairtrade Town and we hope one that will be emulated by other local organisations.”

The Melrose Rotary Tea and Coffee Morning will be held in the Melrose Corn Exchange on Saturday, October 28 from 10am to 12 midday. All welcome.