HEREFORDSHIRE'S bid to become a Fairtrade county received a further boost after three market towns added their support.

The news comes fast on the heels of Herefordshire Council's decision to support the drive.

Leominster, Bromyard and Ross-on-Wye have all pledged to support the bid, which has seen trendy cafs, independent shops and supermarkets stock a range of products from countries in the developing world.

With Hereford and Ledbury already recognised as official Fairtrade towns by the Fairtrade Foundation, the Hereford Steering Group, the community-led group heading the initiative, believes county status is not far away.

Dr John Dinnen, group secretary, said: "We are delighted that Leominster, Bromyard and Ross-on-Wye have all added their support.

"We need to achieve a target of about 36 shops and 18 cafs with Fairtrade goods to become the first Fairtrade county in England."

Fairtrade ensures farmers from countries in the developing world receive a fair price for their goods and opens up new markets for some of the world's poorest workers.

As part of the initiative the council will also support local producers and craftsmen.

Councillor Mike Wilson, cabinet member for resources, said: "The council will now serve Fairtrade coffee and tea at its meetings and Hereford Jarvis Services, the authority's food supplier, will also promote Fairtrade products.

"Alongside Fairtrade, Herefordshire Council and Hereford Jarvis Services will continue to support local produce and locally made products through the procurement strategies."

The community steering group is appealing for more shops, cafes and workplaces across the county to supply Fairtrade goods.

Andy's Caf, in King Street, Hereford, the Cathedral Caf and Starbucks in the city centre already have a Fairtrade menu while retailers such as the Fair Thee Well, in Union Street, Oxfam, in Eign Gate and SPCK, Gwynne Street sell products.

For a full directory of suppliers, visit www.herefordshirefairtrade.org.uk.