Landmark success for showcase event
The Heb Veg discussion group exchange tips and ideas at Riverside School
A diverse mix of thriving community enterprises and small businesses came together on Saturday to celebrate how much environmentally sustainable trading now goes on in and around Hebden Bridge.
A wide range of imaginative schemes were on display at Riverside School for the Transition Town Local Economy Group showcase which organisers declared a landmark success.
“The aim was to show just how much sustainable activity goes on in the town and to bring it to a wider audience,” said Richard Henderson, of the local economy group.
The day began with a talk from Calderdale’s nationally recognised “Totally Locally” initiative which encourages communities to buy locally.
One of the achievements of the day was the meeting held by HebVeg, the veg box providers. Discussions took place about the project’s future direction and how to build on its success. HebVeg wants to develop more resilient local food sources and would like to hear from those with land to offer.
Also present on the day were the self build housing group which held a round table meeting. LED Fantastic, a workers’ cooperative specialising in ultra low power lighting took part, as did sustainable fruit producers the Calderdale Local Orchard Group.
“As well as showing the public more of what is going on, the showcase was a chance for different groups to talk to each other,” said Richard.
“There is some strong supportive infrastructure in Hebden Bridge through the council, the community association and the Ground Floor Project which can help projects get off the ground. We wanted to show that this is a good environment for sustainable social enterprise and the local economy group is there to support people.”
A booklet with details of the businesses and projects which took part and how people can get involved is available in Hebden Bridge at the library, the train station and in cafes. Copies can be downloaded at hebdenbridgetransitiontown.org
A parallel day of entertainment focussing on The Trades Club was also a big success with people flocking to see the premiere of an environment themed show by the Transition Puppeteers called “Chloe, Jake and the Magic Book”. Despite the downpours, the weekend also featured Calder Food Hub’s open gardens event.
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Thursday 17 May 2012
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