New Bishop of Dover celebrates
Fairtrade Fortnight at Bridge and Patrixbourne School

The new Bishop of Dover the Right Reverend Trevor Willmott visited Bridge and Patrixbourne Church of England Primary School this week and celebrated Fairtrade Fortnight. After touring the school and meeting pupils and staff, the Bishop enjoyed a cup of fairtrade tea with pupils from the school council.

The school has recently been awarded the Eco School green flag award for the second year running. The Bishop congratulated members of the eco-council on their success in achieving the award which is presented in recognition of the school's commitment to environmental excellence and sustainability. Pupils from years five and six explained to the Bishop the steps they have taken to become more environmentally friendly which include using fair-trade products, cycling or walking to school, turning off lights, picking up litter and recycling. The school's gardening club also helps preserve biodiversity in the school grounds.

The Bishop's tour of the school was part of his wider visit to the rural East Bridge Deanery which included a briefing on the regeneration of Aylesham and a public 'Ask the Bishop' session at the Aylesham Conference Centre. The new Bishop of Dover, who has delegated responsibility from the Archbishop of Canterbury for the oversight of the Diocese of Canterbury, will visit all 16 deaneries in the diocese over the next two months.

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   Further information from:
   Emily Shepherd, Director of Communications
   07876 210 446

   Information on Fairtrade Fortnight:
   http://www.fairtrade.org.uk
   Information on Eco-Schools:
   http://www.eco-schools.org.uk