CAMPAIGNERS trying to secure Fairtrade status for Swindon need just three more cafes to offer their support.

The town has achieved most of the objectives laid down by the Fairtrade Fair Towns initiative, which attempts to get a better deal for Third World producers.

Swindon Council has passed a resolution supporting the bid and Fairtrade products are used at a number of businesses across the town.

The concept behind Fairtrade is that overseas producers of goods, ranging from coffee to sculpture, are paid a fair price for their labour one which reflects the final price for which the item is sold in the West.

Campaigners have succeeded in getting 18 Swindon shops to sell Fairtrade products but also need to sign up nine cafes.

Only six currently sell Fairtrade coffee alongside mainstream brands and supporters are calling on other caf owners to come forward.

Barbara Aftelak, of the Swindon Fairtrade Coalition, said gaining the status would make Swindon a leading light for fair trade.

"Buying Fairtrade gives producers a standard of living that enables them to educate their children," she said.

"People can directly help families in Kenya, Guatemala and Costa Rica. Currently we get our bargains on the backs of people's poverty."

Cafe owners are interested in selling Fairtrade products can call 01793 466167.