Fairtrade Party

I'm sitting here sipping a glass of rather good lager, left over from last night's party - and I'm not usually a lager drinker. This is from the Rhymney Brewery, though, who do rather good real ale, so I'm trying to suppress my prejudices.
Manu was just as good a musician as Ruth had claimed - and it wasn't just drumming. He sang and had guitar accompaniment as well. He had most of us bouncing up and down for the last song, even the mayor, who stayed all evening and looked as if he was thoroughly enjoying himself, after the presentation of the certificate showing that Hay now has Fairtrade status. Jo made the speech, which managed to be funny and make serious points about helping poor traders in other parts of the world at the same time, and Julie made the presentation.
There was also a short film from Jump4Timbuktu, showing scenes from a recent visit to Timbuktu and talking about trade, not aid. They also had a stall in the hall, selling silver jewellery, including the Tuareg cross, which is traditionally given to a son by his father, and symbolises the four corners of the world, with the well of Timbuktu at the centre. It's meant to help with doubts and confusions.
Julia was there with her Fairtrade bags, too, and we had a stall with Fairtrade nibbles, in the absence of Oxfam, who had said they would come, but pulled out at the last minute. The wine and juice at the bar was all Fairtrade,and the beer was local Rhymney Brewery bitter, Dark, and lager.
Everyone who came seemed to enjoy themselves.

The next thing we're doing is the School Fete, where we'll have a stall, and we'll be launching the new Hay Directory of Fairtrade goods and businesses. That's on Friday 27th June.