A MINI-mountain of surplus packaging was gathered by members of five Worcestershire Women's Institutes as part of a nationwide protest.

They staged a demonstration at Rushwick Village Hall yesterday in order to make their point that many of the things we buy, from fruit and vegetables to cat food and household items, are vastly over-packaged.

"We were flabbergasted at the amount we collected," said Paddy Fellows, who is the co-ordinator for the Elgar group of 10 WIs.

Those taking part represented Alfrick, Clifton upon Teme, Broadheath with Rushwick, Rushwick in Bedwardine and Whitbourne WIs.

"Five of us collected the packaging in the photograph in just a few days. Often things have several layers of packaging when only one would do.

"One of the most over-packaged items was a tap fitting, which came in a strong cardboard box, with more cardboard and bubble wrap inside.

"We all felt that fruit need not be packed in such huge containers. We prefer to go to the local farm shop and get it in a paper bag."