TWO years' of hard work has paid off for a group of Bewdley campaigners committed to tackling poverty of in developing countries.

It has been awarded Fairtrade status after awareness of the cause was raised throughout the town.

The Fairtrade Foundation was established by charities, including Oxfam, and more than 1,500 products carry the trademark.

The goods range from food items such as coffee, chocolate and jam to pencils and footballs.

To secure Bewdley's new status, a steering committee, led by the Rev Keith James of St Anne's Church was set up to help spread the word. The group, which has six permanent members, had to get the support of Bewdley Town Council and Wyre Forest District Council and their commitment to serve Fairtrade goods.

A range of Fairtrade items also had to be on sale in the town and be used by businesses and community organisations, such as schools.

To celebrate, the group is hosting a Fairtrade tea party in the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Gardens on Sunday, June 18, between 2.30pm and 4.30pm. Visitors will be served a range of Fairtrade treats.