East Dunbartonshire's appetite for ethical trading shows no signs of waning as the area celebrates 10 years as a Fairtrade Zone.
Campaigners, councillors, supporters and shoppers joined together for a special birthday event recently - organised by East Dunbartonshire Fair Trade Steering Group.
East Dunbartonshire was one of the first areas in Scotland to gain Fairtrade Zone status in 2007 and has held the accolade continually since then.
The milestone was celebrated with an event at Gavin's Mill shop and café in Milngavie on Friday (27 October).
The Council works closely with the Steering Group, as well as Fairtrade Town groups in Lenzie, Bearsden and Milngavie.
In addition, East Dunbartonshire's Fair Trade Nurseries programme has now been running for more than five years - helping to inspire the next generation of consumers.
Councillor Jim Gibbons, Convener of the Place, Neighbourhood & Corporate Assets Committee, said, "Retaining Fairtrade Zone status for 10 years is a remarkable achievement and I was pleased to celebrate the milestone with so many supporters and enthusiasts.
"I would like to commend the many individuals, retailers, workplaces, churches, nurseries, schools and local community groups who work tirelessly in support of Fair Trade - helping to make a direct difference to people's lives around the world.
"As an authority we remain committed to the ethos and values of Fair Trade, and will continue to work with local communities, organisations and traders on this important issue."
The Council passed a resolution in November 2016 supporting Fair Trade locally - including a pledge to use such goods wherever possible when catering for Council meetings and functions.
Earlier this year, East Dunbartonshire had its Fairtrade Zone status reaffirmed - guaranteeing the honour until 2019.
Bearsden & Milngavie has also successfully renewed Fairtrade Town status for another two years.
Steering Group Co-convenor Angela Oakley said, "The area has held Fairtrade Zone status continually since October 2007, when it was one of the first in Scotland.
"We are delighted at the support in East Dunbartonshire for all things Fair Trade - including strong backing from the Council. There has been a lot of progress made over 10 years.
"Most people know about Fair Trade now and there are many more products on sale. There is still much to be done, however, especially with new trade deals being formed after Brexit."
* The 'Great Lenzie Festive Fair Trade Bake-Off' takes place on 18 November - organised by Lenzie Fairtrade Group - from 10am-noon in Lenzie Union Church Hall.
It follows two successful 'Bake-Off' coffee mornings and will involve four categories - nursery, primary school, secondary school and adult. Visit www.lenziecommunitycouncil.org.uk for more information and a registration form.
As well as the baking competition, there will be coffee and cakes, fun activities for children, a smoothie bike and a range of stalls to browse - including crafts and gifts in time for Christmas. Admission - £2 for adults, £1 for school-age children.
* If you can spare time to volunteer at Gavin's Mill - helping in either the shop, café, kitchen, office or with maintenance - e-mail volunteer@gavinsmill.org
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