THE number of plastic carrier bags being used at Asda stores has fallen by 90 per cent in the months since a 5p charge n their use was brought in.

The supermarket giant has raised more than £350,000 in the six months since charging for bags became mandatory, which will now be passed onto charities and community groups across Scotland.

The money will be split between two charities, Foundation Scotland and Social Investment Scotland, and will be distributed in small grants through loans to third sector organisations who otherwise would find it difficult to get access to funding.

Kevin McBride, Asda's Senior Director for Scotland, said: "We want the carrier bag charge to have long-term social - as well as environmental - benefits, and we want to ensure the funds raised are spent locally.

"By working with Foundation Scotland, we can ensure that ensure that the carrier bag charge benefits the small projects and good causes that matter most to our local community. It's great to see the positive impact it's already making in Perth."

Giles Ruck, Chief Executive of Foundation Scotland, said: "We are delighted to be working with Asda to distribute the money raised from the carrier bag charge."