BRIDPORT BAGLADIES recycle plastic bags by cutting them up and crocheting with the plastic. They make bags of all shapes and sizes as well as other useful items such as peg-bags, hats and gift items. They sell the items to the public and the money raised is sent to the charity HOPE Africa. HOPE stands for Health, Opportunity, Partnership, Employment. This charity is run by the Anglican Diocese of Cape Town and they are working to improve the lives of the poorest people living in the informal settlements in and around Cape Town. Our small but enthusiastic group of ladies – and one man – have been crocheting these items since February 2002. It is estimated they have kept Bridport clear of more than 25,000 plastic bags in that time, and have raised around £6000 for charity. Daphne Ekins, who runs the group, sells the items on a stall at the Bridport United Church Wednesday coffee mornings, and also at fetes and fairs. She also gives talks about Bridport Bagladies, and makes sales, at groups, clubs and societies in and around the area. People are always fascinated by the beautiful and unique items that are created and there has been no let up in that enthusiasm, support and demand for items. It is sometimes difficult to keep up with supply when the group has a lot of orders, so anyone who can crochet is welcome to join the group. The bags made are very strong, colourful and hardwearing. The Bagladies are pleased to think they are not only helping to make poverty history but are also helping the environment. Contact details: Daphne Ekins 8 Charles Road Burton Bradstock Dorset DT6 4RP Tel: 01308 897415 E-mail: You can write to Daphne at the following address by replacing "at" and "dot" and the spaces either side of them by the usual characters. This helps to prevent spambots from collecting the address: dekins at btinternet dot com Bridport Bag Ladies are a group of Bridport residents who make interesting and useful articles out of used plastic carrier bags. Photos: Footnote: The title Bridport Bagladies is sometimes written as Bridport Bag Ladies.