A HAIR salon has been officially recognised as Redditch's first "fair trade" business.

Rio Hair Salon, Birchfield Road, Headless Cross, was awarded the accolade by the Redditch Fair Trade Justice Group.

The group promotes paying a decent price for Third World goods and produce like tea and coffee and trading directly with them.

Its aim is to get as many businesses in the town as possible selling fair trade products.

Rio Hair Salon only serves fairly traded tea and coffee to its customers.

Owner Diane Badger said: "I'm delighted the company can play its part in making life better for many in poor countries by buying and serving fairly traded drinks.

"Our customers can know their custom has helped to improve life for communities in some of the poorest parts of the world.

"I hope other Redditch businesses will join us and help make Redditch a Fair Trade town."

For more details on fair trade, go to www.fairtrade.org.uk