Fair trade status has been awarded to a town that has committed itself to ethical produce.

Worthing gained the award by offering fair-trade products in at least 20 shops and ten food outlets and using fair trade goods in workplaces.

Rod Thick, chairman of the town's fair-trade steering group said: "Gaining fair-trade status is a remarkable achievement. The steering group would like to thank Worthing Borough Council, businesses and the public for their support.

"It's an easy choice to make. Products that carry the Fairtrade logo guarantee that the farmers and growers who produce them are getting a fair deal for their hard work.

"We really hope people will continue to support Fairtrade when shopping or eating out."

There will be a celebratory lunch in the Richmond Room next to the Assembly Hall in Stoke Abbott Road on Thursday, September 29, from 5.45pm-6.45pm.

To book a place or find out more visit www.worthingfairtrade.org.uk