Royal award for team behind Carlile Institute

THE vibrant colours and stunning flavours of Palestinian cooking came to Brockholes.

Palestinian community leader Taysir Arbasi, of Zaytoun Palestinian Fairtrade food, spoke about how Fairtrade is helping Palestinian olive and almond farmers earn a better living.

He spoke of the complexities for farmers striving to nurture crops, with uncertain access to water and lands, within an environment under occupation.

The breathtaking scenery masks the everyday harsh reality for farmers and their families.

Their way of life, now under threat, is embedded in Palestinian heritage and culture. For example, the October school holidays are time-tabled to allow children to join family

The once run-down building is now home to the Post Office, library, community rooms and businesses.

Clr Richard Noon, a Meltham town councillor, said of the award: “It’s a kitemark of how well we’re doing and demonstrates what can be achieved.

“We’ve been invited to go to St James’s Palace and meet the Duke of York and receive the award.”

The award is presented to community projects in Yorkshire which are owned, developed and led by the people the serve. groups to hand pick the olives.

In the West Bank, co-operatives of farmers work together, to maximise efficiencies and create high-quality Fairtrade Zaytoun products including, olive oil, almonds, dates and herb mix, Za’atar.

Taysir’s powerful words echoed a people’s desire for dignity – for farmers and their families to gain a livelihood through trade not aid.

Fairtrade builds a connection between farmers and consumers, and offers some hope to a beleaguered people.

Guests at the event then sampled Palestinian-style Fairtrade fare, while listening to Palestinian songs by Reem Kelani.

For more about Zaytoun products visit: www.zaytoun.org.