Selkirk is on course to be plastic bag free by the end of March

The initiative in Selkirk would involve residents being issued with replacement canvas-type bags by 31 March.

The project has been backed by traders and funding from Scottish Borders Council's community grants scheme.

It has attracted interest across the region, with Peebles, Innerleithen, West Linton, Broughton and Melrose also considering the move.

Jenna Agate, spokeswoman for Selkirk Plastic Bag Free, said the project was progressing well.

'Gentleman's agreement'

"We are optimistic that we shall meet our deadline of no more plastic bags in the town by 31 March," she said.

"A lot of the traders are considering changing to paper and others will use compostable cornstarch bags instead of plastic.

"We are currently working on a gentleman's agreement that we shall ask traders to sign, whereby they will agree not to issue, give out or sell any plastic bags to any customer after this date."

In May 2007 every shop in the Devon town of Modbury banned plastic bags at the suggestion of a local resident.

Since then, a number of towns across the UK have announced plans to follow suit.