CHILDREN in Three Rivers designed artwork for a new bag for life scheme, as part of a competition to encourage the local community to go plastic bag-free.

The new Three Rivers bags for life, which are made of jute, are available across the district.

One of the winners was a pupil at Harvey Road Primary School, in Croxley Green, whose original and interesting designs caught the judges' attention and highlighted the importance of reducing plastic bag consumption.

Seven-year-old Lydia's design has been printed on to the bags and she won a special bench for the school, made from recycled plastic.

Nick Rowlands, headteacher of Harvey Road Primary School, said: "We were keen for the children to take part in this competition to remind them to use reusable bags whenever possible. We're delighted that Lydia won a bench for the whole school to enjoy."

Councillor Phil Brading, portfolio holder for public services and health, added: "We introduced the bags for life because there is a clear need to reduce plastic consumption in Britain. The average shopper uses 342 plastic bags per year. Each plastic bag is used for an average of 12 minutes before being discarded."

Residents can pick up their bag for life at Three Rivers House, Rickmansworth, and at participating local primary schools at a cost of £2. Eighty-five pence from bags bought at the school will be given back to them.