The Lutterworth Plastic Bag Reduction Group has organised the event at Lutterworth Town Hall on Monday, November 10, from 6pm.

The group was formed in May this year and aims to encourage shoppers and traders in the town to reduce, re-use and recycle plastic carrier bags.

An open invitation is being extended to traders from the town to show them a presentation as well as some alternative types of carrier bag.

Dr Elaine Carter, one of the five members of the group, said: "We're hoping it will be a relaxed but also informative evening.

"We plan to show a short video to make traders more aware of some of the issues to do with discarded plastic bags – such as the damage they cause to the environment and wildlife.

"There will also be a discussion on how the project will progress in future."

The group has so far carried out two surveys in the town to gauge public opinion. One was a sample of residents while the other was sent to traders.

Dr Carter said: "The survey showed residents and traders alike were all in favour of reducing their usage of plastic bags. They just wanted more information on how to do it.

"We have compiled a list of suppliers of re-useable or recyclable bags and we hope to put this on the internet so traders can look through the options in their own time.

"There will be examples of the alternatives available on the evening."

The group is producing posters to give to traders who back the scheme to display in their windows.

Dr Carter said the group would also like to organise a 'bag reduction' day in early 2009 – but no arrangements have been made yet.

Traders wishing to attend the November 10 meeting do not need to book in advance. Wine, soft drinks and other refreshments will be provided.