A SPECIAL event will be held in York this week to welcome the declaration that Yorkshire has been confirmed as the UK’s first Fairtrade region.

The occasion on Friday will be hosted by the Lord Mayor of York, Coun Keith Hyman, at the Mansion House, with speakers from across Yorkshire including York Outer MP Julian Sturdy and the Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu.

York gained Fairtrade City status in 2004 and City of York Council leader James Alexander said: “It’s great to see Yorkshire being recognised for its work in becoming Fairtrade and I’m proud of the part York has played in that.”

Mark Dawson, Fairtrade Yorkshire’s co-ordinator, said: “It is a fantastic achievement for Yorkshire to be declared as the first-ever Fairtrade region and that’s thanks to shoppers who have bought Fairtrade goods, the businesses which have sold them and Fairtrade supporters who have promoted this ethical way of trading.”