TESCO has announced that commitments to local causes will continue despite the decline of the 5p bag.

From Monday (August 28) single use 5p carrier bags will no longer be available.

They will be replaced by a new ‘Bag for Life’ made from 94% recycled plastic, priced at 10p.

Removing single use carrier bags will significantly reduce the number of bags sold and will therefore help reduce litter and bags sent to landfill.

In trial stores customers found that the ‘Bag for Life’, which is replaceable for free if damaged, helped them move to reusable bags.

Even though the ‘Bag for Life’ will be exempt from the government levy on the single use carrier bag, Tesco will ensure that bags sold for 10p in stores will continue to fund thousands of community projects as chosen by customers.

Lindsay Roach, community champion for Evesham Tesco, says that the introduction of a new ‘Bag for Life’ comes with a significant commitment to continue helping local good causes through ‘Bags of Help’.

She commented: "We want to celebrate the community groups that have already received grants from this scheme in the local area and support others to apply for a ‘Bags of Help’ grant.

"It is exciting times for groups that benefit the community as the grant is for £4000 and the two runners up get £2000 and £1000 as decided by the customer vote.

"So pick up a blue token every time you visit the store and make your vote count. If you go through self-service or ‘Scan as You Shop’ don’t forget to take a token. Local groups need your support."

To apply for a grant, visit tesco.com/bagsofhelp or call 0121 237 5780