Hard working Ian Fearon and his business partner Ray Fenwick have spent the last 12 months perfecting their idea for an environmentally conscious alternative to the plastic bag.

And after building their new-style trolley they feel they're onto a winner.

Unlike regular supermarket trolleys, the contraption has no front, but is made up of four biodegradable bags, which shoppers can unload at the check-out, re-load and take home.

The inventors, of Joma Engineering, envisage supermarkets giving the first set of branded bags out free, but customers will then be charged to encourage them to reuse the kit.

It is hoped the initiative will cut down on the 10bn plastic bags used each year.

"We've had the trolley tested in a local mini market and it is very manoeuvrable and holds the same amount as a conventional trolley," said Mr Fearon.

"We've also found that the bags remain upright in the back of cars and are more comfortable to carry for those using public transport or walking."

The engineers are now in the process of developing variations on their theme to include child seats and low-level versions for wheelchair users.