AS governments and multi-national companies wrangle, the debate over Fairtrade has taken a major step forward in Evesham.

The town, with the backing of local councillors, is aiming to become a Fairtrade town by next year.

But what exactly does that mean, and how can the man and woman in the street play their part?

Buying products that display the Fairtrade logo ensures that the producers of your tea, coffee and chocolate receive a decent income, says Councillor Robert Raphael, chairman of the town's Fair Trade group.

Rather than being hit by the ever-changing price of their product on the world market, or losing out to a middleman, producers in a fair trade scheme are guaranteed a decent, stable price for their produce.

Cllr Raphael is keen to see the town reach Fairtrade status next year.

To promote the campaign, a special launch event was held at the town hall earlier this

month. "It was a great success with more then 70 people attending to find out how they can help in the quest to become a Fairtrade town," he said.

"We already have some churches and schools interested in the initiative and cafes and restaurants in the area want to get involved too. The plan is to make Evesham a Fairtrade town within 12 months but we can't do that without the support of more commercial businesses, shops, dentists, doctors and churches."

The good news is you don't have to go too far for these products. In fact, your weekly shop doesn't have to change at all.

There are no special supermarkets or health shops required, your normal trip to Tesco, Morrisons and most of the other major players will do the job. Martin Williams, deputy manager of Tesco on Worcester Road in Evesham, said: "There are a number of Fairtrade items around so making the switch is easy. If you normally buy one type of coffee, try another brand for a change, opt for one with the Fairtrade mark and you can do your bit without thinking about it."

He adds: "We have all the usual Fairtrade products such as bananas, chocolate, coffee and tea. The prices are slightly higher but it doesn't seem to put people off, these products sell well."

He concludes: "I'd urge everyone to support the town in its campaign. It will be a boost for the town and the important Fairtrade industry."

Bruce Carter, store manager at Somerfield in the town adds: "I think making Evesham a Fairtrade town is the right choice. There are loads of products on the market now so everyone can be a part of it. It will be good for the town too, it will bring it to the forefront."

Other Fairtrade products include citrus fruits, sugar, fruit juice, honey, snacks, wines and beers, roses and even cotton clothing.

In order to become a Fairtrade town, five goals must be met.

First, a resolution must be passed by the local council and a range of Fair Trade products must be stocked in shops and used by a number of local workplaces such as hairdressers.

Evesham must also attract media coverage and popular support for the campaign and a local steering group must be set up to ensure a lasting commitment to the town's Fairtrade status.

Mayor Frances Smith attended the launch event and is also keen to see the town reach Fairtrade status. "It's very important for us to become Fairtrade and if we can get more businesses and schools to use Fairtrade products and become registered as Fairtrade, we will be on our way.

"To become Fairtrade, people have to register and go through a certification process. Individuals can help by support the campaign by simply switching to Fairtrade products and encouraging the use of these products in their workplace."

To find out more about becoming a Fairtrade licensee, visit www.fairtrade.net. For more local information, contact the secretary of Evesham's Fairtrade Group, Lynne Jakeman, on 01386 760727.