AN ancient town has become the first in the North-East to be recognised for its work to promote fair trade in developing countries.

Guisborough, in east Cleveland, is following in the footsteps of Newcastle, which last year was the first metropolitan authority to win Fairtrade city status.

The town has met five goals needed to achieve the status, following a campaign by the East Cleveland World Development Movement (WDM) to gain support for Fairtrade products within Guisborough.

The town council passed a resolution supporting Fairtrade and a range of its products are available in the area's shops and cafes and used by a number of work places and community organisations.

A local steering group has also been set up to ensure continued commitment to the town's Fairtrade Town status.

The chairman of Guisborough Town Council, Councillor Anne Franklin, said: "The town council wants to help Fairtrade and promote growth.

"We are more than happy to support this if it means a better deal for countries around the world."

Many of the 180 Fairtrade products available in the UK, including bananas, chocolate, coffee, tea and fruit juices, are on sale in Guisborough shops, including For Goodness Sake, Real Meals, and Safeway and Somerfield products.

Fairly-traded tea and coffee are on sale in The Priory Coffee Shop and will soon be on sale in Virgo's. Fairtrade products are also available from a Traidcraft stall held in Guisborough Methodist Church every Saturday, between 9.30am and 11.30am.

Anyone wanting to get involved with Fairtrade issues and become part of the local East Cleveland WDM can ring (01287) 280335.