FAIRTRADE campaigners have been disappointed by a poor response to their latest campaign to boost support for the movement in Kidderminster.

Only five replies have been received from more than 300 letters sent to shops, businesses and other organisations, in which steering group patron, BBC Midlands Today presenter, Michael Collie, urged them to agree to stock or serve at least two Fairtrade products.

Steering group chairman, Peter Grantham, said he was “disappointed” by the poor response, although pleased that another five organisations had signed up to support the campaign.

They are Trinity Methodist Church, Bradley Retail Ltd, of the Horsefair, the Wyre Forest Community Housing Group, St Ambrose RC Church and the Elim Church, Prospect Hill.

Kidderminster was awarded Fairtrade status for the first time a year ago and its first annual renewal application is currently being compiled.

Mr Grantham said he was anxious that the minimum level of support already acquired should be increased.

“We have to meet stringent criteria set down by the UK's Fairtrade Foundation and prove that we have maintained the level of support required for a town of this size.

“We also have to show that we are actively working to encourage a greater take-up. That's why we sent out the letter with a tear-off slip to find out if others had already started using these products and if they hadn't, to encourage them to start.”

There is still time for organisations to return the reply slips agreeing to sell or use a selection of Fairtrade products including tea, coffee, sugar, chocolate, cereal bars and wine on a regular basis to give producers in the developing world a fair income and a route out of poverty.

They can be posted, emailed or deposited in boxes in Mark & Spencer, the Worcestershire Hub at the town hall or Kidderminster Library.

Any organisation which has not received a letter but wishes to support the campaign should contact Mr Grantham on 01562 824523.