A new charge on single use Co-op carrier bags should give a boost to island charities as well as helping to protect the environment.

The chain has placed a 5 pence charge on the bags across its 10 Isle of Man shops in a bid to reduce plastic waste.

But funds from the bag sales will go straight into the Co-op’s Local Community Fund which supports local causes chosen by members as part of the membership scheme.

Causes in line to benefit include Without Wings - The Manx Autoimmune Arthritis Trust, Ramsey Cottage hospital League of Friends, 1st Laxey Scout Group, Southern Aquatics Swimming For The Disabled and Men In Sheds, Port Erin.

John McNeill, divisional managing director at the Co-op, said: ’We’re very pleased to announce this double-whammy of good news - not only are we able to increase the amount of funding we’re giving out to local causes through sales of 5p carrier bags, but we’re also delighted to be playing a big part in cutting down the amount of bags in circulation and reducing the impact of plastic litter and waste on the Isle of Man.

’Together with our members and customers, we are reducing, reusing, recycling and, reinvesting in our communities.’

Co-op bosses estimate the bag sales could generate an extra £22,000 over the coming year for the charities.

Since its launch in 2016, the Co-op’s Membership Scheme has distributed £95,000 to over 35 local causes in the island.