Winchester is well on its way to becoming a Fairtrade city, say organisers of the campaign.

The news comes as members of Winchester City Council voted through proposals to ensure more Fairtrade products are used at all council events.

The Fairtrade mark was established to give shoppers the chance to make an impact in some of the world's poorest countries simply by buying various products.

In world markets the price of commodities such as cocoa, coffee, tea and spices can fluctuate hugely, often falling below the cost of producing it.

That in turn can dramatically affect the quality of life experienced by those growing and picking the crops.

The Fairtrade scheme ensures a decent price is paid for the goods, which in turn means farmers can better pay their workers, improve living conditions and stamp out child labour.