A LOCALLY run fair trade business has raised enough cash to open its first shop.

The Fair Traders Co-operative (FTC), says it has secured almost £80,000 of its £100,000 target – and it has secured a loan of up to £25,000 to make up for any shortfalls.

Now the co-operative, founded by five Holmfirth townsfolk, says its shop at the Toll House, Huddersfield Road, will be opening in spring as planned.

FTC says it is finalising its lease with the Toll House’s landlord.

And a very special guest could be at the opening ceremony.

The co-operative, which aims to sell fair trade goods and local produce, now has over 300 members and stakeholders.

The organisation, which was launched last year, already has direct links with producers in Tanzania, India, Malawi and Kenya.

Co-founder/director Elisabeth Bounds said: “Members are still coming in but we’d still welcome new members.

“We’re moving forward and its getting really busy.”

More information at: www.thefairtraderscooperative.co.uk

Shareholder who would like a business plan should email FTC secretary Mark Lewis: info@fairtraderscooperative.co.uk