PENDLE is leading the way in helping celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight next month with a series of events.

The area was named the UK's first Fairtrade borough last year and is helping celebrate and raise awareness on this international topic.

Fairtrade Fortnight runs from March 1 to 14 and is co-ordinated by the Fairtrade Foundation, which was set up in 1992 to tackle poverty in Third World countries.

It was formed by a group of non-governmental organisations including Oxfam, Trade Craft, Christian Aid, the World Development Movement and CAFOD. The London-based foundation licenses companies to use the Fairtrade market and puts producers in direct contact with buyers.

Jane Wright, Pendle Council's policy officer, said: "The activities planned are aimed at promoting the important issue of Fairtrade but also to have fun. They include a fashion show, coffee mornings, food tasting, and special assemblies and games within schools. We hope the diversity of these events will help introduce a wide range of people to Fairtrade."

Pendle celebrated being the first Fairtrade Borough by launching a new cocktail, the Pendle Thrill - inspired by Pendle Hill - which includes one of the most famous ingredients in East Lancashire, Benedictine.

The status was granted as the result of a campaign kicked off by the late Colne councillor, Jo Belbin. Former mayor Coun Belbin, who died in February last year, originally pushed for Pendle to gain Fairtrade status in 2002 when she urged fellow councillors to back the idea.

To get a Fairtrade card, listing suppliers of Fairtrade produce in Pendle, contact Jane Wright on 01282 661988. For more information about Fairtrade logo on to www.fairtrade.org.uk