Supporters of the Fairtrade Rutland campaign are celebrating the renewal of the county's fairtrade status, following checks being carried out ensuring the county is clearly demonstrating its commitment to Fairtrade.

Rutland first received its Fairtrade-county status in 2007 and has had the title checked and renewed every five or six years since then.

The Fairtrade Christmas Market will be returning again this year to Oakham (Rutland Fairtrade Forum)

David Lewis, Chair of the Rutland Fairtrade Forum, said: "To maintain Fairtrade County status, it is necessary to demonstrate a high level of commitment to Fairtrade across the community. It is a real boost to receive news of the renewal ahead of our annual Fairtrade Christmas Market. 

"We are very grateful to all the schools, businesses and community groups who have helped to ensure that Rutland continues to be a Fairtrade County. It is wonderful that so many people in the county choose to support the Fairtrade principles of improved working conditions, sustainable production and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world." 

Supporters of the Fairtrade campaign will be celebrating the renewal at this year's Rutland Fairtrade Christmas Market on Saturday 30th November 2024. Taking place in Oakham Castle, the market will be on between 10am and 3pm, with stalls offering a wide variety of Fairtrade and ethically traded products from around the world. The market will be an ideal opportunity to buy Christmas gifts, with stalls selling food and drink, clothes, jewellery, crafts, toys and decorations.

The Fairtrade Christmas Market celebrates the best of Fairtrade gifts and produce (Photo: Rutland Fairtrade Forum)

The Co-op in Oakham will also be offering free samples of Fairtrade wines and chocolate. There will also be the opportunity to learn more about Fairtrade and the benefits of supporting the initiative. 

Rutland Fairtrade Forum is a small voluntary group which works to promote Fairtrade in Rutland. The group is keen to hear from any businesses or individuals who may be interested in getting involved. For more information, email [email protected] .