A FORTNIGHT of events promoting Fairtrade food is taking place in Kennet. Fairtrade goods will be on sale and free tastings available at various events.

To kick off the fortnight in Devizes, which is bidding to become a Fairtrade town, a Traidcraft market stall will be in The Shambles on Thursday March 3.

Free chocolate fondue with Fairtrade chocolate and fruit will be one of the treats at Marlborough's Fairtrade Fiesta on Saturday March 19 at Marlborough Town Hall, which will be the finale of the fortnight.

The Fairtrade Mark was launched in 1994 with just three products. Now there are 180 Fairtrade foods including coffee, tea, chocolate, sugar, bananas, fresh fruit, juices, honey, cakes, biscuits, cereal bars, jams and sauces.

Kennet Fairtrade co-ordinator Judy Pitts said: "The Fairtrade Mark has already make a difference to the lives of millions of growers and their families.

"Fairtrade guarantees farmers a decent price for their goods, it means they work in reasonable conditions and it gives them employment rights.

"Getting paid a fair deal can help people take control of their lives so they don't have to worry about their next meal and can plan for the future, such as sending their children to school or investing in their business."

For full details of events call Antonia Tolhurst, the Fairtrade co-ordinator based at the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust on (01380) 725670.