THE Batley and Spen constituency has successfully renewed its Fairtrade Zone status for two years.

The area was first awarded Fairtrade status in 2008 in recognition of the strong support for Fairtrade within the constituency.

Tina Walker of the area's Fairtrade Steering Group said: “I’m thrilled to receive the 2017 certificate on behalf of everyone who has worked so hard towards this successful renewal: businesses; schools; faith and community groups and Kirklees Council.

"The accreditation is given to the people of Batley & Spen and I’m incredibly proud to shout out about the phenomenal goodwill in our area."

A number of businesses and schools in the constituency are involved in promoting the Fairtrade mark which helps small-scale farmers ensure they earn stable incomes and have long-term contracts with companies.

Adam Gardner, communities campaigns manager at the Fairtrade Foundation, said: “We’re very pleased that Batley & Spen has renewed their Fairtrade status and laid out clear exciting goals to take Fairtrade further."