My name is Philippa Harper, I am nine years old and a pupil of Burlish Park Primary School, Stourport.

Did you know that 25th February to 9th March was designated Fairtrade Forthnight? The pupils of our school have been learning more about Fairtrade, an organisation to help farmers in poorer countries get a fair amount of money for their hard work.

Unfortunately it is often the case that in some third world countries, people work long and hard for little pay.

Last week Mrs V Higgs, one of our school governors, came into school to talk to Year 4 about Fairtrade. She is a representative of the Fairtrade Organisation in Stourport and was able to tell us a lot more about Fairtrade and its benefits. Year 4 are going to write to Worcestershire County Council and ask if they can supply our school with Fairtrade bananas. Please contact our school if you would like to join in with our campaign!

Fairtrade was established in 1992 by several well-known charities including Oxfam and Christian Aid. 53% of adults recognised the Fairtrade symbol and Fairtrade produces many products, ranging from tea to rice. Here are some others: nuts, cotton, hot chocolate, sweets, flowers, fruit juice, honey and herbs.

Additionally, last week Mrs Bickerton was kind enough to take three pupils including myself to Stourport High School for a fascinating discussion on Fairtrade. I was amazed to learn that without the support of Fairtrade, visiting banana farmer Gideon Gilbert (from the Windward Isles) would not have been able to give his daughter an education. He explained to us how Fairtrade has affected his living standard. We also heard a bit about Mr Gilbert's banana farming and the life span of a banana plant (9 months!) I found it very informative and learnt a lot about how effective a small amount of money can be.

Not everyone has sampled Fairtrade Produce but this is widely available at a local supermarket. This way you enjoy tasty food and are also supporting poorer farmers in third world countries.

Our school has been delighted to be awarded the Fairtrade School status and visitors can even sample Fairtrade coffee!

PLEASE SUPPORT FAIRTRADE!