Voting is now open to decide which charity will win a £12,000 grant to support its work.

The Recorder has teamed up with Tesco for the Bags of Help scheme, which aims to put proceeds from the 5p carrier bag charge back into the community.

Three charities in Redbridge have been shortlisted, and now readers must decide which will receive the £12,000, £10,000 and £8,000 grants up for grabs.

Last week Tesco Superstore, Southend Road, Woodford Green welcomed community members for an event ahead of the voting opening.

Over the past few weeks, the Recorder has profiled the three shortlisted charities Forest Farm Peace Garden, Hazelbrouck Gardens, Hainault; Friends of Churchfields Park, South Woodford and Roding Valley Park, Roding Lane South, Redbridge.

The scheme was open to entries to bid and the three finalists were chosen by a Tesco panel.

Voting runs in Tesco stores until Sunday.

Store manager Himat Pindoria said: “The event was a great opportunity to meet with the charities that are committed to improving the community through their environmental projects and hear their stories first hand.

“The Bags of Help scheme is a great way of supporting communities to make a difference in their local areas, while also raising awareness of local charitable organisations.

“We wish all the charities the best of luck and look forward to seeing their projects in action.”