The group want to see retailers supporting the ban by Easter 2008

Campaigners in Farnham hope to follow in the footsteps of similar initiatives taken by other towns across the UK.

The newly established group, Plastic Free Farnham, has received the support of local MP, Jeremy Hunt.

It is urging consumers to make "important changes to their Christmas shopping habits and bring a bag" when they shop.

The campaign, which began on Saturday, is being led by Emma Wells, owner of Farnham Organics, in Station Hill.

'Here and now'

"On average, a plastic bag is used every 12 minutes and then discarded - it can then last in the environment for decades causing untold damage to marine life and other environments," she said.

"Ridding the town of plastic bags begins with the consumer bringing their own bag when they shop.

"Fifty other towns have managed to achieve plastic-bag-free status in the UK already - why can't Farnham?"

Mr Hunt added that he welcomed Plastic Free Farnham's decision to open the debate on the subject.