First Kew EcoFair hailed a triumph!

On Saturday 11 March, St Luke’s Church welcomed more than 500 people for the first ever Kew EcoFair.

Held as part of St Luke’s EcoChurch initiative, it was a bright day with a bustling atmosphere, bringing all ages together to inspire action on climate change, in support of the event’s official charity, Thames 21.

The fair included free bike health checks with The London Cycle Workshop, eco-shopping from local businesses, a sustainable clothes swap, repair cafe, children’s’ activities, and musical entertainment. A host of local charities and organisations, including Richmond & Twickenham Friends of the Earth, Fairtrade, and Living Streets were also at the fair.

The Mayor of Richmond, Cllr Julia Cambridge and local MP Sarah Olney were both present and made appeals to attendees to think about the changes they can make in their own lives to reduce their carbon footprint.

Kick off to proceedings included broadcaster Jeremy Vine, who arrived on his Pennyfarthing bike and delighted young and old alike with a demonstration. Jeremy spoke movingly about the global decline in nature and the need to travel more sustainably.

The Wishing Tree stall - which featured an array of prizes from local businesses, including restaurant vouchers, gym memberships, hampers and more - saw brisk business, and the ‘Shop Local’ resonated with visitors, as an important way individuals can lower their carbon footprint.

St Luke’s Church has been awarded its bronze EcoChurch award and will be building on the success of the EcoFair as it strives to gain silver status, by taking concrete steps to improve the sustainability of all aspects of church life.

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