WE are so label-conscious that the humble carrier bag has become a fashion accessory, a new survey suggests.

Robust leather has been usurped by flimsy plastic as the preferred receptacle of the British people.

Nothing in the fashion world is ever simple, however. You cannot be seen with any old carrier. That is why the style-conscious surreptitiously slip their corner shop groceries into a Harvey Nichols bag saved from a rare excursion to Leeds.

Tonight we report spectacular news for York's bag ladies and gentleman: the opening date of McArthurGlen phase II.

A whole new ensemble of designer carrier bags awaits.