FREE carrier bags are being given to small retailers in Tendring in the latest initiative from the Shop Local campaign.

Launched by Tendring Council with the Clacton, Frinton and Walton Gazette and the Harwich and Manningtree Standard, the scheme encourages people to use stores in the area.

It is hoped the biodegradable bags will help to promote the campaign to shoppers out and about in the district’s town centres.

They also carry the details of the free parking scheme, in which seven car parks around Tendring are free between 2pm and 6pm.

It is hoped a local business will sponsor the next batch of bags.

Nick Turner, cabinet member for technical services, said: “The idea of the bags is to remind people and to help the shop keepers.

"We want to reinforce the Shop Local message and I hope people use their local shops and High Streets.”

Rachel Fryer, town centre co-ordinator at Tendring Council, said: “The feedback from the shops for the Shop Local campaign and the carrier bags has been very well-received and they like the support that we are giving to them.”