THOUSANDS of plastic bags were recycled as part of a two-week 'bag amnesty' in the borough.

Figures have today been released showing residents handed in a total of 12,000 carrier bags as part of the scheme.

In return for every 10 they recycled, they received a more eco-friendly reusable cloth bag.

The council-run initiative took place between October 31 and November 14 this year at special events and municipal offices around Waltham Forest.

The scheme was also backed by voluntary group Forest Recycling Project and the plastic bags will be put to use by organic fruit and veg schemes across east London.

Cabinet member for environment Cllr Bob Belam said: “This was a great effort by our residents and it shows just how in tune with the green agenda they are.

“Many supermarkets now offer reusable shopping bags and some have facilities where old carrier bags can be recycled.

"Our residents have shown how easy it is to cut down on waste and do the green thing, so here’s hoping that this success spurs even more on to follow suit.”

Waltham Forest Council was among the first in London to introduce compulsory recycling and has signed up to the 10:10 Campaign, aimed at reducing the UK’s carbon emissions by 10 per cent in 2010.

For more information, visit walthamforest.gov.uk/recycling