SWINDON Fairtrade Coalition is about to submit its bid for Fairtrade status to the Fairtrade Foundation, in London.

And it wants to make sure all supporters are included.

Any businesses which support fair trade by selling or serving two or more Fairtrade products but have not been contacted by Swindon Council are asked to get in touch.

The council also wants to hear from anybody who is planning an event to celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight.

The Fairtrade Mark on packaging is the UK's only independent consumer label that guarantees a better deal for Third World producers.

Disadvantaged farmers gain access to markets and receive guaranteed better prices, as well as a premium they can use for improving quality of life in their own communities.

The Swindon Fairtrade Coalition works to promote awareness of fair trade in the town.

It includes Swindon Churches Together, the World Development Movement, Swindon Borough Council, Wiltshire Wildlife Trust, Lower Shaw Farm, the 21st Century Swindon Forum, Oxfam, Christian Aid, Swindon Friends of the Earth and Future In Our Hands. For more information email lforrester@swindon.gov.uk