A LABOUR MSP has praised local groups and organisations for making the recent Fairtrade Fortnight a huge success.

This year’s event took place from Monday, February 24 until Sunday, March 8 with various organisations taking part.

And Colin Smyth, South of Scotland Labour MSP, attended several different events to mark the two weeks.

The fortnight, which ended before coronavirus restrictions, took place across the whole of Ayrshire to highlight the importance of Fair Trade.

Smyth is the convener of the Scottish Parliament’s cross-party group on Fair Trade.

He also hosted a reception at Holyrood to celebrate Bala Sport – a co-operative set up to expand the availability and use of ethically produced sports balls in the UK and beyond.

Also in attendance at the event, Smyth welcomed guest speakers Ndiuzayani Zaya and Aubrey Meki Chilenje of the Kasinthula Cane Growers Association in Malawi.

Mr Smyth said: “I have the privilege of being convener of the Scottish Parliament’s cross party group on Fair Trade so I see first-hand all the time the amazing work Fair Trade groups do to change the lives of the people who grow things we love.

“Buying products with the Fairtrade Foundation mark means you are helping to create a world in which all producers can enjoy secure and sustainable livelihoods, fulfil their potential and decide on their future.

“Well done to everyone who took part in this year’s fortnight, it just seems to get bigger and better every year.”