First EVER Fair Trade Father Christmas

As Wales is the first Fair Trade Nation it is only right that Wales will host the first ever Fair Trade Father Christmas. Santa's suit, which is 100% ethical and is made from both Fair Trade materials and Welsh wool (donated by the British Wool Marketing Board), demonstrates how Fair Trade and local produce can work together.

Kate Meakin, Development Officer for Fair Trade Wales explains, "His coat is made from a mixture of Fair Trade fabrics from developing countries and Melin Tregwynt wool, his collar, cuffs and beard are made from Welsh sheep wool and even his belt is a recycled car tyre! We want our Father Christmas to show that during the busiest shopping time we can make a positive difference to farmers everywhere with our purchasing choices"

Competition winner Claire Andrew from Newport Universities' school of fashion designed the stunning outfit. Claire said

"It has been great to be involved in the project which raises awareness that beautiful fabric can be ethically sourced and environmentally sound. I am really proud that I've used offcuts that would have been thrown away, upcycled them and created the first ever 100% Fair Trade Father Christmas!"

Santa will be travelling through Wales stopping at Cardiff, Anglesey, Conwy and a few more places along the way, as well as a special appearance at the Christmas fun day at the National Museum of Wales, Cardiff on Saturday the 19th December.

Photocall: There will be a photocall with our Fair Trade Father Christmas and the competition winner Claire Andrew at the giant Christmas tree (near Boots) inside the St David's shopping centre at 2pm on Friday 4th December. Please call Kate Meakin on 02920 803293 for more details.