Eco Energy Fair in Wetherby brings residents and businesses together to discuss how to build a more sustainable future

The Eco Energy Fair, held at St James’ Church Centre in Wetherby, featured a variety of stalls, workshops, expert talks and hands-on advice, from home energy improvements to community-led solar projects.

Organised by the Boston Spa, Wetherby and Villages Community Green Group, Wetherby Methodist Church, U3A and St James’ Church, the event showcased practical ways to reduce energy use, cut waste and support local initiatives.

Adrian Balcombe, chairman of the Boston Spa, Wetherby and Villages Community Green Group, said: “It was amazing to share ideas and hear about the variety of local initiatives that are saving people money and helping our community to become more sustainable.

“There was a real buzz about the event, with a regular stream of people visiting from our community.

“Thanks to our hosts, collaborators, speakers, exhibitors and supporters.”

The fair was timed between Prince William’s Earthshot Prize and COP30, linking local action to global climate ambition.

Robert Haskins, from St James’ Parish Church, said: “It was great to see so much interest in how to save the planet.

“This fair was staged between Prince William's Earthshot Prize and COP30, when almost 200 countries meet. As he says, ‘Actions or lack of them will shape forever the trajectory of our planet... Progress is possible’.”

A spokesperson for Wetherby Methodist Church said: “It was a great collaborative effort resulting in a really interesting and thought-provoking day. Very encouraging to see and hear about all the initiatives taking place to green the local area.”

Keynote speaker Brenda Ainsley, from The Climate Reality Project (Europe), inspired attendees with her talk on climate justice and collective action.

She said: “I was delighted to be invited as keynote speaker at the Eco Energy Fair. This was a perfectly organised and impactful event, with many interested and engaged participants.”

Keith Jackson shared the results of the Boston Spa Energy Efficiency Trial and attendees were delighted to know that their bills had been reduced by about three per cent.

Keith said: “The project has been a resounding success and 15,000 customers in Wetherby and local villages will continue to get the benefits.”

Keith is now pressing for widespread adoption across the whole of the Northern Powergrid region and across the UK, which he says would deliver annual customer savings of £770m.

Updates from St James’ Church, Wetherby Methodist Church and Monk Fryston Community Energy regarding their low carbon journey were also shared during the day.

Ray Newton, of Monk Fryston Community Energy, said: “The day had something for anyone who is interested in either saving money - and who isn’t - or mitigating climate change without changing their lifestyles.

“It was a real eye opener. Well done to the organisers.”

The day also featured a craft thrift sale run by Tadcrafters, encouraging re-use and sustainable crafting.

A spokesperson said: “It was wonderful to see so many people attending the event and encouraging to hear about all the different activities and businesses available in the local area with a focus on sustainability.”

Penny Stables, founder of the Boston Spa, Wetherby and Villages Community Green Group, said it was “an excellent event” with “lots of good engagement and a very warm, buzzy atmosphere”.

For more information, visit bostongreengroup.co.uk