Freedom Seeds were at the Product Earth Expo in Peterborough over the weekend (27th/28th June). This was the first trade fair/expo of its type in the UK for more than five years. Held in the exhibition centre at the East of England Showground, the venue is a large sprawling complex of buildings and outdoor space used mostly for agricultural shows.

We arrived on Saturday morning and walking past the purpose built area for judging foxhounds (yes, the bastards are still at it despite the ban), we approached the modern exhibition hall.

Inside there were stalls and exhibitors covering a wide range of stuff including seeds, clothing and paraphernalia.

There was good representation from the campaign groups including Release, NORML UK, European Coalition for Just and Effective Drug Policies, European Cannabis Social Clubs, UK Cannabis Social Clubs and our good friend Clark French of United Patients Alliance.

Although there were a good few people milling about there didn’t seem to be that many until we discovered hundreds outside enjoying the warm summer sun and mellow sounds from the main stage of the Music Village.

The music village with adjoining camping field was what set this event apart. With the good weather over the weekend many of us spent a lot of time outside looking at the stalls and checking out the wide variety of food outlets which included an appetising choice for vegetarians like me.

The highlight for me was the stonking set from veteran reggae dance outfit and headliners Zion Train. With the crowd already warmed up by a great set from Mad Professor, the Zion crew owned it. I’m sure the good folk of Peterborough hadn’t heard anything like it.

All in all this was a very well organised chilled out event with a friendly vibe, just as it should be. Well done to Richard & James for taking the risk to put this together. Respect.