The Circuit Christian Aid group invited us to a presentation in the Church Hall on the work of Traidcraft by Ralph Dransfield. Ralph and his wife Margaret had the wonderful experience of visiting Peru with Traidcraft's "Meet the People Tours". The purpose of these tours is to promote understanding by meeting people assisted in their marketing by Traidcraft. In a Powerpoint presentation, we were introduced to the work of Traidcraft, with specific examples of how Peruvian workers were enabled to form cooperatives, find new markets, and generally improve their lot. We were introduced to a coffee farmer from Cocla, in the 12,000 foot cloud forest of the Urumbamba river valley, which is the sacred valley of the Incas. Then there were the alpaca knitters from Collasuyo, north of Juliaco - (I recommend reference to a good map!) - and the Allpa potters and a silver-worker who live in the village of Cuyo Chico.
There was plenty of opportunity during the trip to visit major tourist sites and we were given the opportunity to view many of the Inca sites, with the amazing stonework, mountain terracing and mountain peak temples with their daunting climbs. There was also a trip to Lake Titicaca, which, at an altitude of 12500 feet, is the largest lake in South America.
After the presentation, Fair Trade coffee, tea and biscuits were served and there was a stall of Traidcraft products. Free literature from Traidcraft was also available. Those present commented on how interested the whole evening had been.
Our thanks are due to Ralph and Margaret, and the local Christian Aid group for a very worthwhile evening.
The Shell Group, Junior and Senior Sunday School children sang songs from 'Sundays Cool'
