FAIRTRADE Fortnight is being celebrated in Keighley as part of a series of events across the district.

A themed baking competition takes place at the town's Shared Church on Saturday, March 4, at 6.30pm.

People are invited to enter a bake made with at least one Fairtrade ingredient.

There are categories for under tens, U18s and adults, plus for the 'best looking' bake and one that is gluten and/or dairy free.

Following a shared sampling and judging process, winners will be announced at 7pm.

The event will also feature Fairtrade information, plus there is chocolate and wine tasting.

This year's Fairtrade Fortnight, which runs until March 12, features a packed programme of free events and online activities.

The campaign aims to highlight the plight of farmers and producers of goods in countries where workers are affected by low pay, difficult work conditions and, increasingly, climate change, and it promotes the purchase of products with the Fairtrade logo.

Bradford district became a Fairtrade zone in 2006.

It is home to seven Fairtrade villages and towns, which organise events throughout the year, often in collaboration with schools, places of worship, organisations and businesses.

Amongst the Fairtrade villages is Haworth, which has been at the forefront of the movement for over two decades.

It was the eighth place – and the first village – to be awarded Fairtrade status by the Fairtrade Foundation on November 22, 2002, in recognition of its efforts supporting the global campaign to promote ethically-sourced goods.

The remit of Councillor Sue Duffy, Bradford Council's portfolio holder for children and families, includes Fairtrade.

She says: "Fairtrade continues to be an important catalyst for change in the conditions and rights of farmers and producers of other goods, such as cotton, around the world.

"Climate change is already affecting these communities which in turn has an impact on supplies to the UK, so supporting Fairtrade means helping to protect people’s futures.

"One of the focuses of this year’s fortnight is the items which are endangered by climate change, such as bananas, chocolate and coffee. These are at risk of becoming harder to find in shops. But switching to Fairtrade means extra income, power and support to the communities which rely on growing these crops, allowing them to put in measures to protect their livelihoods.

"I hope all the Fairtrade Fortnight events are well supported."

For further information about Fairtrade Fortnight, visit fairtrade.org.uk/get-involved/current-campaigns/fairtrade-fortnight.