TWO Newcastle Emlyn businesswomen have been recognised for their efforts promoting and supporting goods produced using fair and sustainable methods.

Fair and Fabulous is one of only four retailers in Wales to receive the BAFTS – The British Association of Fair Trade Shops and Suppliers - accreditation.

Pals Jill Sutton, of BagAge, and Lenshina Hines, from Squish Fair Trade Kids, operate their businesses under the the Fair and Fabulous umbrella.

To celebrate the achievement, the pair have extended their shop space to include goods from three continents, including Asia, South America and Africa.

To become BAFTS members, the pair have to show how they adhere to the ten principles of fair trade laid down by the World Fair Trade Organisation (WFTO).

“It’s all about raising awareness of crafts made under fair working conditions," said Jill.

"Take a candle for example, we need to think about who made it, who supports the makers and how we ensure they are paid and treated fairly. The BAFTS board needed to see how we implement the 10 principles and promote Fair Trade."

The principles include creating opportunities for economically disadvantaged producers and ensuring good working conditions for workers - something Lenshina is very passionate about.

She said: “When I buy toys for my child, I want to know that child labour isn’t used and workers are not exploited.

"It’s about understanding the provenance of the product.

"Within the garment industry you only need to look at the Rana Plaza factory in Bangladesh. In 2013, 1,134 garment workers were killed and over 2,500 were injured because building safety was ignored. In Cambodia, women who are pregnant get sacked.

"If people knew how the workers were treated, then perhaps they wouldn’t buy clothes from these sources. With fair trade transparency is assured.”

Jill, who spearheaded the campaign to ensure Newcastle Emlyn received Fair Trade Town statue in 2014 said: "Receiving the BAFTS award gives us the recognition for what we do. It helps us tell our customers that we know our goods are Fair Trade, it tells them who we are and what we are involved in.

"It also means we can attend an annual two-day conference and play a bigger part in the wider Fair Trade movement.

"Many people can make the connection where food comes from and think of animal welfare, but what about people welfare?”

To celebrate their new status, Lenshina and Jill are offering a 30 per cent discount on selected lines on October 13 as well as refreshments for all from 5pm to 7pm. They are also happy to visit school and societies to discuss the importance of Fair Trade.