Campaigners aiming to achieve Fair Trade status for their town have been shortlisted for a national community award.

The Fair Trade Eastbourne campaign is encouraging people and businesses to buy Fair Trade goods.

It is one of 16 projects shortlisted for the 2005 Coffeehouse Challenge awards which recognise creative contributions to communities.

Cliff Burrows, managing director of Starbucks UK, said: "The awards are designed to recognise people who address and tackle issues of local importance and concern.

"The Fair Trade Eastbourne campaign clearly demonstrates how local people can come together to find real solutions to local challenges."

Clive Gross, of Fair Trade Eastbourne, said: "We have already held events featuring speakers from the Fair Trade Foundation and are planning a whole series of activities over the coming months.

"We are delighted to have been short listed."

Monday, October 31, 2005