CULTURAL diversity was celebrated when Commonwealth Day was marked in Colchester.

The event at Colchester Town Hall also signalled the start of Fairtrade Fortnight which urges people to support farmers and workers in developing countries.

Colchester Mayor Julie Young welcomed businesses, organisations and individuals to the event which kicked of with a free fairtrade breakfast served to more than 100 people.

Mrs Young raised the Commonwealth flag, A day-long multicultural event followed which featured food stalls, fashion, music, arts, the Trades Union Council, Colchester Stand Up to Racism, the Army Cadets, and other cultural displays. It was rounded off with a Fairtrade afternoon tea.

Mrs Young, said: “At a time when friction and division among nations threatens to undermine international peace and stability, it was fitting to be able to honour the work and co-operation of the Commonwealth, and also to promote the importance of equity and fairness in bringing to an end the exploitation of farmers and producers in developing countries.”

The event was organised in association with Rachel Walton of AFIUK (African families in the UK), Julia Obasa of Hashtag4biz business consultancy, Pam Boon of Music Models & More, and Colchester Fairtrade Town Steering Group.