1,600 runners go bananas for Fairtrade

1,600 runners go bananas for Fairtrade

Nearly 1,600 people who took part in this year’s Paisley 10k and 3k fun runs were welcomed across the finish line by a gorilla.

The friendly gorilla was there to provide a much needed energy boost by giving each runner a Fairtrade banana, generously donated by the Co-op.

Liz Armstrong, Co-operative and Membership Officer from The Co-operative Group Scotland and Northern Ireland said: “The Co-operative membership was again delighted to support such an athletic bunch with an ethical munch at the end of the race. Our Fairtrade bananas were well received by all those participating.”

The bananas were handed out at the finish line by a Co-op member of staff dressed in full gorilla costume, with the help of volunteers from the Renfrewshire Fairtrade Steering Group.

Leader of the Council, Councillor Brian Lawson, who also chairs the Renfrewshire Fairtrade Steering Group, was there to cheer on the runners. He said: “It was fantastic to see so many people out in the town for this event. All 1,600 runners did remarkably well and I’m sure they were all pleased to refuel afterwards.”

“I would like to thank the Co-op for their contribution. It is wonderful to have another event in the town supporting the Fairtrade initiative. Paisley has been a Fairtrade town since 2003 so it’s great to show our continued commitment.”

Fairtrade guarantees fair prices for third world producers and gives power back to both producers and consumers. Renfrewshire achieved Fairtrade Zone status in 2009 and the steering group continues to promote Fairtrade in the area and develop the campaign further. To find out more about Fairtrade in Renfrewshire go to www.renfrewshire.gov.uk and look under Community and Living.

News supplied by Renfrewshire Council