A COMPULSORY charge for all single-use carrier bags will come into effect a week on Monday, with customers set to pay a minimum of 5p for every bag they use.

Fife Trading Standards are reminding retailers that they face a range of sanctions, including a £200 fine, if they give bags away free of charge from 20th October onwards.

Any shop with more than 10 full-time staff will be required to keep financial records for three years detailing how much they make from the charge. Businesses are being encouraged to donate the proceeds to good causes which benefit communities or the environment.