A STEERING group trying to achieve Fairtrade status for Three Rivers got a boost this week.

Fairtrade is the campaign that aims to give producers in developing countries a fair price for their goods.

The Three Rivers branch heard this week that Kings Langley based alternative energy supplier RES had pledged to support its campaign to make Three Rivers a Fairtrade District.

Jane Brading, chairman of the Three Rivers Fairtrade Group, said: "Everyone around here knows RES and their landmark wind turbine at Kings Langley - having their support will do a lot to raise the profile of our campaign. Asking in shops and restaurants for Fairtrade products is a practical step that everyone can take to help the developing world and RES's support shows that more and more people are standing up and making a difference everyday."

The Three Rivers Fairtrade group has been working since the middle of 2004 to increase the amount of fair trade goods on sale in the area.

Fairtrade status is awarded to a district once a significant number of local shops and restaurants offer approved products. The Fairtrade mark is a sign that the original producer has received a minimum price that covers the cost of sustainable production and an extra premium that is invested in social or economic development projects.

In addition, major employers are also asked to support the programme by serving Fairtrade products such as coffee and food to their staff and visitors.

Anna Stanford, of RES, said: "RES's policy of using Fairtrade products at our head office and educational centre in Kings Langley is part of the company's overall commitment to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. By insisting on using Fairtrade products, everyone makes a small difference to supporting farmers and manufacturers in developing countries - it's a simple step but it will make a big difference."