AMATEUR gardeners in Castle Point are being encouraged to make the most of composting at home.

The council is offering discounted compost bins with tips and advice on how to make the most of them.

The authority is offering the scheme in partnership with Recycle Now, a national campaign.

Ray Howard, cabinet member for waste and environment, said: "Home composting is still one of the best ways to help the environment on a daily basis.

"It is a habit that can be quickly incorporated into your regular kitchen and garden routines.

"For instance, it's not just grass cuttings that can go into your compost bin, you can also add scrunched up cardboard, teabags, vegetable peelings and coffee granules - even shredded confidential documents.

"Why not take the opportunity to clear out any garden debris from the winter months, and use this garden waste to give your compost bin a kick-start for the new season?

"And if you don't already have a compost bin, there couldn't be a better time to get started."

Castle Point residents can get their bins from just £17.

A standard 220-litre composter normally costs £40, but only costs £17 through this offer.

Delivery is free.

The 330-litre bins are available for £20 instead of the usual £50.

All compost bins are made entirely from recycled materials.

To find out more, visit www.recyclenow.com/ compost or call 0845 0770757.