A CAMPAIGN to turn Clitheroe into a Fairtrade town has been successful after organisers enlisted the support of businesses, schools and churches.

The town has received the Fairtrade Town Status Certificate and is planning a celebration extravaganza later this year.

Clitheroe had to satisfy five criteria to show that it was committed to the cause.

This included persuading local businesses and other organisations to use Fairtrade products, the creation of a Fairtrade steering group and the council passing a resolution backing the campaign.

Since the bid began in 2004 it has been backed by five cafes, 13 shops, 20 other organisations including faith groups, schools and businesses, who have all started using Fairtrade products.

Mary Robinson, the mayor of Clitheroe and chair of the Fairtrade Steering Group said “This is wonderful news and reflects all the hard work by the people of the town.

“We should be very proud. Thank you to all the businesses and organisations who have helped to make this happen. But this is only the start of making the world a fairer place.”

The group will have a stall at the Sheepfest Festival on May 8 and there will be an event to celebrate the achievement in June.

Mrs Robinson added: “Soon shops and other places which sell or use Fairtrade products will be able to display the specially designed Fairtrade sticker.

“But of course, as this is only the first step towards a fairer world and the steering group would encourage others to get involved.”

The application was submitted to the Fairtrade Foundation in February.

The Fairtrade mark is described as the UK's only independent consumer label which guarantees a better deal for farmers in developing countries.

It ensures they receive an agreed and stable price for the crops they grow and an additional income to allow them to invest for a sustainable future.