DURHAM County Council is backing a campaign to give Third World producers a better deal.

It has become a Fairtrade Council and now buys products from developing countries through a scheme that gives farmers and growers a fair price for their goods.

Chairman Alan Fenwick said: "This commits us not only to increasing the range of Fairtrade products on offer at our establishments and ev-ents but also to raising the awareness of Fairtrade issues and continuing to play an active role in developing local and regional Fairtrade partnerships.

"The council is able to make a small but significant contribution towards improving the quality of life for farmers and farming communities in other countries.

"This move is part of a wider programme of activities to meet the county council's commitment to pursue more environmentally- friendly and ethical procurement and purchasing.''

The council now offers Fairtrade coffee and tea at all meeting and events at County Hall, and has Fairtrade drinks and confectionery vending machines.

Staff took part in a One World Carnival in Durham's Market Place to highlight Fairtrade issues.