FOUR hundred people took to the saddle on Saturday for an unusual bike ride in Warrington.

Supporters of Fairtrade Fortnight in the town gathered in Golden Square Shopping Centre to ride a smoothie bike, allowing shoppers to taste some banana smoothies.

It is to gather support for a national petition organised by the Fairtrade Foundation, calling on the Government to bring an end to supermarket banana price wars.

Among those to join in were Mayor Clr Peter Carey, Wolfie and Wolves stars Joel Monaghan, Richie Myler, Stefan Ratchford and Michael Monaghan.

Ruth Smalley, a member of the Warrington Fairtrade Steering Group which organised the event, said “ More than fifty people rode the smoothie bike and many more enjoyed the delicious smoothies that were produced!

“Sainsbury’s kindly donated six hundred Fairtrade bananas to make the smoothies and distribute to shoppers during the day.

“We were delighted with the positive response to the petition; people quickly understood how unfair the present situation is and were keen to sign.”

The bike will also be at Warrington Market on Saturday where the fun includes a chocolate fountain, craft activities, a quiz trail and the petition.