Three towns have been designated Fairtrade zones, after a two-and-a-half year campaign.

Members of the Braintree and Witham Fairtrade Group had worked hard to get businesses and residents on board to use and sell products which help give a better deal for producers in developing countries.

Their efforts have paid off, after the Fairtrade Foundation awarded Braintree, Witham and Kelvedon fair trade status.

Ruth Barlow, chairman of the Braintree and Witham Fairtrade Group, said: "I would say it was a mammoth task and it was certainly bigger than I expected."

The towns had to meet five goals to gain the status, including gaining support from Braintree Council, workplaces, catering outlets and shops.

To mark the occasion, members of the Fairtrade group presented certificates to Braintree Council members Phil Barlow, Lynn Watson and Margaret Galione, and Kelvedon trader Rose Loy, who sells a wide range of Fairtrade goods.