Camborne renews Fairtrade status, thanks to a banana suit

If you have ever spotted a six-foot banana wandering round a stall in Camborne, waving leaflets about coffee prices, that was almost certainly Brian Terry doing his bit for ethical shopping. And this month gives him something new to celebrate.

Ten years of ethical shopping

Camborne has once again been officially accredited as a Fairtrade town, extending a commitment to ethical shopping that first began back in 2010. The fresh accreditation runs for three years, and comes down to the sustained effort of businesses, schools and community organisations across the town, not to mention one especially dedicated volunteer.

The man behind the banana suit

Brian Terry, a former teacher, has served as Camborne’s Fairtrade ambassador for years, and has become known for going the extra mile, quite literally donning a banana costume at events to get the message across.

“Fairtrade is making a positive difference worldwide by helping to ensure farmers and workers are rewarded fairly for what they produce,” Brian said.

“As consumers, we’ve all got a role to play in making ethical and environmentally responsible buying decisions and I’m so proud of Camborne for all that it’s doing to promote such a worthy cause.”

The businesses playing their part

The re-accreditation is not down to one person alone. Many businesses across the town support the campaign by stocking ethically-sourced products, among them high street shops, cafes, boutiques and hotels.

Anna Pascoe, Camborne’s Business Improvement Development Manager, praised the wider effort behind the renewal.

“I heartily congratulate Brian and all the businesses, schools and organisations involved in securing this three-year Fairtrade re-accreditation,” Anna said.

“Fairtrade sets standards that protect farmers and workers everywhere by ensuring fair prices, safe working conditions and sustainability. That’s something we should all be supporting and I’m so proud that Camborne has been a leading light in the movement.”

Catch Brian at Green Fest

Anyone wanting to find out more, or simply to see the banana suit in action, can head to Camborne Town Council’s Green Fest on 12 September, where Brian will be running a Fairtrade stall from 11am to 5pm at Camborne Recreation Ground.