M&S has taken innovation amongst high street stores up a gear today as it launches the first school uniform made entirely from recycled bottles.

The plastic containers are melted down to create polyester which is then made into blazers, shirts, trousers and skirts.

Part of the store's 'Plan A' initiative to cut its carbon footprint, the recycled polyester is made by chopping up old plastic bottles and melting them before squeezing them through tiny holes to make a yarn.

Even the shoes are recycled, made from waste leather shavings that would otherwise appear in landfill sites.

And, while the uniforms are smart and hard-wearing, they are also affordable with a blazer costing £17 and a pack of two blouses starting at only £10.

Scott Fyfe, director of M&S' Kidswear department, told the Daily Mail: "We are number one for schoolwear on the High Street and are always looking at ways to give our customers the most innovative, best value and highest quality schoolwear.

"This top to toe recycled uniform is another way that we're doing this, letting customers do their bit for their environment as well as getting the great M&S quality that they can rely on."

So, though you may be dreading this summer's 'back-to-school' shopping trip, at least there's now a greener option.

Don't miss: 50% off sale at M&S!