From May 21 all shops in England will be charging for single-use carrier bags, with the charge doubling from 5p to 10p.

Previously only businesses with 250 employees or more had to charge per bag and smaller shops could chose to do so voluntarily, but now even corner shops will have to introduce the charge.

The 5p levy on plastic bags was introduced in England in 2015, with the most recent figures showing that the number of single-use bags distributed by large supermarkets has fallen more than 95%.

The average person in England now buys just four single-use bags a year, compared to around 140 in 2014.

By extending the charge to all retailers, the government expects the use of single-use carrier bags to decrease by 70% to 80% in small and medium-sized businesses.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: All shops in England are set to begin charging 10p for plastic bags by the end of the month. Picture: ANTONY KELLY.All shops in England are set to begin charging 10p for plastic bags by the end of the month. Picture: ANTONY KELLY. (Image: Archant Norfolk 2016)

The Environment Minister, Rebecca Pow, said: "The introduction of the 5p charge has been a phenomenal success, driving down sales of harmful plastic bags in supermarkets by a remarkable 95%.

"We know we must go further to protect our natural environment and oceans, which is why we are now extending this charge to all businesses.

"Over the next couple of weeks I urge all retailers of all sizes to make sure they are ready for the changes, as we work together to build back greener and strengthen our world-leading action to combat the scourge of plastic waste."

Association of Convenience Stores chief executive, James Lowman, said: "We strongly welcome the inclusion of local shops and other small businesses into the successful plastic bag charging scheme, which not only helps the environment, but is also a great way for retailers to raise money for local and national charities."

John Lewis said it was trialling the removal of single-use bags from its Cheltenham, Kingston and Leeds stores from May 21.

Great Yarmouth Mercury: Four women have been accused of a £20,000 shoplifting spree at John Lewis in Norwich.Four women have been accused of a £20,000 shoplifting spree at John Lewis in Norwich. (Image: Archant)

Customers will be asked to bring their own bags or buy a reusable bag made from 100% recyclable material costing 50p for a medium size and 75p for a large size.