BRIERLEY Hill pupils have been going bananas at events to support their school's bid for Fairtrade status.

St Mary’s RC Primary School is aiming to gain a Fairtrade mark to show its commitment to the campaign, which is dedicated to ensuring producers get a decent price for goods sold in high street shops and supermarkets.

Fairtrade Fortnight is taking place until Friday March 10 and retail giant Sainsbury's has been helping youngsters at the Mill Street school learn how the campaign makes a difference to people's lives around the world.

St Mary’s RC Primary School teacher Anna White said: “We're always looking for ways in which we can encourage global awareness amongst our pupils.

"Learning about Fairtrade gives our pupils the opportunity to consider how the choices they make in daily life can impact on the world and other people. We’re a big supporter of Fairtrade Fortnight and this activity will help us to achieve the Fairtrade mark for our school”.

Sainsbury's staff visited the school during Fairtrade Fortnight with examples of Fairtrade products including chocolate and bananas, pupils also took part in colouring and dance competitions.

Sainsbury's Amblecote worker Julie Bate gave a talk about her visit to Fairtrade peanut farms in Malawi in 2011.

Sainsbury’s Amblecote Store Manager Vernon Dix said “We are proud to be the biggest retailer of Fairtrade products and we’re always looking for ways in which we can further raise awareness to our community about the benefits of supporting Fairtrade."