Green-fingered residents are being urged to get composting as they clear out their gardens for spring.

Compost bins are available through a Durham County Council-backed scheme for £16 plus a delivery charge.

Anyone with a larger garden or who teams up with a friend of neighbour to buy a bin can also get a second half price until the end of March.

Spring is the perfect time for composting as winter deadwood from planters and flowerbeds can produce a great source of nutrition for gardens.

Organic kitchen waste, fruit and vegetable peelings, teabags, coffee grounds and even the contents of your vacuum can also be added.

Order a compost bin online by visiting www.getcomposting.com or by calling 0844 571 4444.