A CAMPAIGN to eradicate plastic bags in a Worcestershire town is to be officially launched next weekend.

The Evesham Bagbusters (EBB) is hoping to rid the town of single use plastic carrier bags.

The group was started by several environmentally-minded people, who belong to the freecycle websites for Evesham and Pershore - an internet based site which encourages people to recycle unused or unwanted items for free.

Hazel Patching, from the group, said: "We are a voluntary, not-for- profit independent group. We have chosen the mission statement to be: To encourage Evesham to become a town in which single use plastic carrier bags are no longer socially acceptable'."

The group will officially launch its campaign next Saturday, March 1, when people will be able to buy their own Evesham Bagbusters jute bag - an eco friendly shopping bag.

The group will have two stands, at Evesham Market square and the Riverside Shopping Centre, and a raffle will also be held.

EBB is also currently lobbying for support from Wychavon District Council and Evesham Town Council, along with trade bodies and partnerships in the Evesham area such as Vecta and the Market Towns Partnership.

Liz Lynne, West Midlands MEP said: "I was thrilled to learn that the growing movement against throw-away plastic bags has been embraced by the people of Evesham.

"These bags are adding horrendously to landfill sites, use huge amounts of energy and oil in their production and often choke wild animals who mistake them for food, so any way we can reduce their use is worth the effort.

"Voluntary community initiatives such as Evesham Bagbusters are vital in limiting our impact on the environment. It would be great to see other towns across the region roll out similar schemes."

Peter Luff, MP for Mid-Worcestershire added: "It is good when communities work together and that's what makes Evesham Bagbusters such a great initiative.

"Good luck to Evesham Bagbusters - let's work to make the town not one that offers free plastic bags, but one that is plastic bag free."

For more details visit www.eveshambagbusters.org.uk or email info@eveshambagbusters.org.uk