Dunscore Fairtrade Group

This group was set up in 2007 with the aim of making Dunscore the first Fairtrade village in Dumfries & Galloway. We were delighted to achieve this status in February 2009!

Fairtrade is a way to help relieve poverty by changing how we shop. If you buy goods which have the Fairtrade label (see below) then you know that the producers have been guaranteed a fair price for their goods. They are also given an extra amount on top of this for community projects such as schools, clean water and health programmes.

Living in a farming community, we are well aware that it is not only farmers in developing countries who suffer trade injustice. We encourage people to buy locally and to support the village cafe … which sells Fairtrade goods.

In 2009 we published a cookbook/directory of local businesses and community groups which use Fairtrade products. We have also compiled a list of locally produced food and crafts.

In October 2010, Russel Brown MP unveiled new signs at the entrance to the village (see photo).

Also in October we took part in the 500 mile bike relay from Aberfeldy to Cardiff to celebrate the declaration of the 500th Fairtrade town in the UK. (photo)  We welcomed cyclists from Strathaven for lunch in the church (photo)and a ceilidh in the village hall.  Six people from Dunscore cycled 60 miles to Brampton the next day.

The group meets every 6 weeks and participates in activities throughout the year, includin providing a cafe at the World Peace Festival at Allanton Sanctuary in June and donated tea, coffee and Fairtrade footballs to Dunscore Gala in August.  There are always plenty of activities in Fairtrade fortnight (28th Feb to 13th March). 

New members are always welcome at our meetings.

 Alison Boyes (820458).