Ilkley celebrations as Yorkshire declared Fairtrade Region (From Wharfedale Observer)

Ilkley celebrations as Yorkshire declared Fairtrade Region

9:15am Thursday 17th January 2013 in Local news

Ilkley will be at the centre of celebrations tomorrow as Yorkshire is officially recognised as the UK’s first Fairtrade Region.

Christchurch will host one of the celebrations taking place marking the declaration – which recognises its commitment to buying goods which give producers in developing countries a fairer deal.

The declaration marks the culmination of three years’ work by campaigners and traders across Yorkshire.

Chairman of Ilkley Fairtrade Group and Bradford Fairtrade Zone, Karen Palframan, said: “Becoming the first certified Fairtrade region is a fantastic achievement.

“Everyone who's bought, sold or supported Fairtrade anywhere in Yorkshire has contributed to this – the support has been amazing, from Holmfirth to Hull, Sheffield to Scarborough. It just shows how caring Yorkshire folk are.”

Ilkley Fairtrade Group will hold a free coffee morning at Riddings Hall, Riddings Road, from 10am to noon.

Ilkley’s town crier will welcome dignitaries and visitors. A specially-adapted Fairtrade version of On Ilkley Moor Bah T’at will be sung, and the Fairtrade Region certificate handed over.

The campaign received the support of Yorkshire bishops, MPs, sports stars, universities, councils and artists.