YORKSHIRE has been officially declared the UK’s first Fairtrade region.
Towns and cities can secure Fair Trade status if they show adequate support for Fairtrade, and after three years campaigning, Yorkshire has been certified such a region. The campaign received support from Yorkshire bishops, sportsmen, schools, universities, faith groups, MPs, councils and artists.
Mark Dawson, Fairtrade Yorkshire co-ordinator, said it was fantastic news and was thanks to everyone who had bought, sold or supported Fairtrade.
“The support has been amazing.”
The Archbishop of York, Dr John Sentamu said: “Having witnessed the results of Fairtrade when I visited the Ivory Coast in 2009, I know the simple choices we make in the supermarkets have a massive effect on improving the lives of those that live overseas.”
The declaration was made at a reception at York’s Mansion House.
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