For 25 years, Fairtrade supporters have been fighting against poverty and inequality, making a real difference to the lives of farmers and workers around the world.

The campaign has also helped change how many of us think about the people who produce the food, drink and clothing we enjoy every day.

As the 25th anniversary of the Fairtrade mark is celebrated, it is time to recognize the long-lasting support of the South Lanarkshire Fairtrade towns: Strathaven was the first Fairtrade town in Scotland, then East Kilbride and Hamilton joined the movement and more recently Biggar, which is hoping to obtain Fairtrade Town status this month.

South Lanarkshire Council also promotes Fairtrade to its employees by serving Fairtrade tea and coffee and joining Fairtrade campaigns.

Celebrate the 25th anniversary and join the party:

• Biggar Fairtrade towns will celebrate the 25th anniversary during the Biggar Little Festival (17th -27th October) with an exhibition of artwork on shop windows on Biggar High Street prepared by pupils from Biggar Primary School.

• Fairtrade town will be holding a Festive Fairtrade evening on Wednesday 6th November, from 7pm to 9pm, at the Arts Centre, 51-53 Old Coach Road, East Kilbride, G74 4DU. Everyone is welcome and lots of Fairtrade cake, chocolate and wine will be served.

For more information about the 25th anniversary of the Fairtrade mark, please consult the Fairtrade Foundation website.

For more information about Fairtrade in South Lanarkshire and about these events, please email CERPerformanceandImprovement@southlanarkshire.gov.uk