FOREST Green will be celebrating Fairtrade Fortnight at the New Lawn on Saturday, with free Cafédirect Fairtade hot drinks, a range of Fairtrade snacks, as well as displays, stalls and information on the importance of giving farmers in the developing world a fair deal.

Fairtrade Fortnight, which concludes at the end of this week, this year marks the launch of a unique campaign that aims to transform the banana industry to ensure those at the sharp end of the supply chain, the millions of struggling banana farmers and workers, get a fair deal.

As well as free drinks and lots of information on Fairtrade and how it helps developing countries, there will also be a chance to win a Fairtrade Football signed by the Forest Green Rovers team.

The event has been organised by FGR and Nailsworth Fairtrade Town Steering Group as part of their commitment to the campaign and to Fairtrade principles.

Sue Nicholson, co-ordinator of the Nailsworth Fairtrade Town Steering Group, said: “We are thrilled that Forest Green Rovers FC is showing its commitment to Fairtrade in this way and we look forward to what promises to be an exciting and stimulating event.

"The Fairtrade Town Group has enjoyed working with FGRFC on this initiative and we hope to build on this relationship in the years to come. We are currently applying to renew Nailsworth's Fairtrade Town status and this event will be a central feature of our renewal application.”

Forest Green Rovers have long stocked a significant range of Fairtrade products and Saturday’s match against Cambridge (3pm) is another opportunity to showcase the importance of embracing Faitrade ethics.

Helen Taylor, Forest Green Rovers Ambassador, said: “This is a great way for everyone to celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight while having a bit of fun. FGR sell a wide range of Fairtrade products at matches all year round.

"Our special Fairtrade-themed match is all about giving people the chance to try these - with sampling taking place in our Black & White Lounge before the match and at half-time and fun things planned for kids in the Carol Embrey Suite.”