SUPERMARKET shoppers in Malvern were greeted by story book characters marking the Co-op's switch to Fairtrade tea for its own brand.

Staff dressed up as Alice in Wonderland, the Mad Hatter and the March Hare to have a mini tea party in the store at Worcester Road, Malvern.

The event coincided with Fairtrade Fortnight, which started on Monday and runs until Sunday, March 9.

It aims to raise awareness of Fairtrade products, which try to ensure a better deal for growers in developing countries. The Co-op's decision to sell only Fairtrade tea under its own brand will benefit growers in some of the world's poorest countries, including Malawi, which is producing Fairtrade tea for the first time.

Malvern Co-op manager Gary Heason said: "We don't mind going a little mad if it helps to promote this initiative and encourage many more shoppers to support Fairtrade."

Shoppers were also able to try Fairtrade tea.