Lakes aims to achieve Fairtrade status

The Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) has backed a plan to apply for Fairtrade status.

If successful, the park would become the first Fairtrade zone of its kind in the UK. Members of the LDNPA voted at a meeting this week to back the scheme, and help promote ethical trade and support marginalised producers both locally and in developing countries.

There are over 500 towns in the UK that have achieved Fairtrade status, some of which lie within the Lake District National Park. However, any area can apply, including counties, islands and boroughs.

LDNPA policy adviser Neil Solender said working towards Fairtrade status would promote inclusion and integration.

He said: "Fairtrade products do not compete against our own locally-sourced products but rather sit alongside.

"Buying local products from the national park and Cumbria remains of key importance, ensuring our local economy and local producers benefit over the long term."