Chorley could soon be a Fairtrade borough if a council campaign succeeds.

Chorley Borough Council will now serve Fairtrade approved tea and coffee and sugar at council meetings and events wherever possible.

The move is the start of a drive to encourage other people to start using the products and achieve Fairtrade status for the entire borough.

The council is also looking to include Fairtrade options all hot drink and snack vending machines and will be meeting with all suppliers to encourage them to do the same..

Councillor Dennis Edgerley, deputy leader, said: "The council is committed to supporting Fairtrade through using approved products itself and encouraging other people, including local businesses, to do the same."

Fairtrade is a national organisation set up set up by various charities including CAFOD and Oxfam.

It aims to ensure farmers and workers in the developing world receive a fair and stable price for products, get extra income to improve their lives, have a stronger position in world markets and are able to respect the environment, as well as forging closer links with consumers.

Tea, coffee and sugar are among the most popular products available to buy through Fairtrade, but the organisation also approves clothing and cotton, confectionary including chocolate, fruit such as bananas and oranges, spices and even sports equipment. Coun Edgerley added: "I'm delighted we have made this switch and I'd urge others in the borough to do the same. If enough people get involved we'll be able to go for Fairtrade status, which would be a great reflection of the spirit of people in this town."

For the borough to achieve Fairtrade status a range of Fairtrade products must be readily available in the area's shops and cafs and used by a number of work places and community organisations such as schools.

Fairtrade products can be purchased locally at various supermarkets and stores.

The council wants to hear from business people who already serve or sell Fairtrade products. Contact Martin O'Loughlin by email on martino'loughlin@chorley.gov.uk or ring 01257 515141. For more information go to www.fairtrade.org.uk