A deposit of £1 could be charged on plastic beakers by bars at big seafront events to encourage recycling.

Brighton and Hove resort services manager Chris Holm said the cash would be returned when the customer took the vessels back to the bar.

Mr Holm has put forward the idea to the city Sustainability Commission, which meets tonight.

Members were concerned at the amount of litter left after outdoor events. Plastic rather than glass was preferred so people would not get injured by shards.

Mr Holm said many traders at events paid concession fees and wanted to make as large a profit as possible.

He said: "Recycling does not form part of their business plan or part of the concession agreement."

Education was a key element in recycling both for the public and concessionaires.

Until now, getting rid of litter quickly and cheaply had been the main aim after big events.