A world first was celebrated by Lib Dem president Tim Farron who hailed the Lake District’s success in becoming the only Fairtrade national park.
The Westmorland and Lonsdale MP said the coveted ‘zone status’ would allow the area to use its “considerable and global reputation” to raise awareness of trade justice issues.
Presenting the certificate, Mr Farron said the Lake District was Britain’s most populated and popular national park and therefore the most influential.
He added: “Support for Fairtrade is a demonstration of how the values of folk here are lived out; a great community spirit and a global outlook.
“But the work doesn’t stop here. Fairtrade zone status carries with it a commitment to promote the movement.”
Becoming the world’s first Fairtrade national park was a coup for 24 organisations in the Lake District National Park Partnership, which was behind the bid to gain the coveted status.
Partners work together in managing an over-arching strategy for the area, including a ‘local and fair’ programme to boost sustainability – locally and internationally.
“This is a great example of the partnership’s commitment to making a difference,” said Clive Wickham, Lake District National Park’s partnership and community co-ordinator.
“We want to encourage shoppers to choose local products where possible, but to see Fairtrade as a real alternative when that isn’t an option.”
The Lake District National Park Authority looks after this unique corner of England, encouraging people to enjoy and understand its beauty and helping those who live and work here. Our staff include rangers and field workers, advisers at our visitor centres, planners, ecologists and event organisers.
