IT may not sound like the most tempting offer, but residents are being invited to come and discuss compost next week.

Gardeners in the Stockton area can get first-hand advice by speaking to a compost expert either on Wednesday, at Stockton Market, or at the Garden Festival to be held at Preston Park from Friday until May 8.

The expert advice is being offered to coincide with the fifth UK Compost Awareness Week.

The officers will offer explanations and advice on making and using compost and the huge range of benefits it brings to gardeners.