Green Christmas 2010 - Invest in the surprise gift that keeps on giving this festive period

It might not be the first thing that springs to mind when buying a loved-one a gift but Worcestershire County Council is encouraging residents to consider a more unusual present this Christmas – a compost bin.

In a partnership initiative with Herefordshire Council, people stuck with what to get for the person that has everything, or simply those who want to give an unusual or sustainable gift, are invited to invest in a compost bin.

Delivered direct to your door, the Council's compost bins literally are the gift that keeps on giving.

Available in a festive green or traditional black, residents lucky enough to open a bin on Christmas day can start composting straight away – literally - and look forward to rich compost all year round.

Scrunched up wrapping paper can be added to the compost bin as well as any potato and vegetable peelings from Christmas Day.

Fallen poinsettia leaves, scrunched up cardboard, satsuma peel and egg shells are also welcome Winter additions. Contrary to popular opinion, Winter can be a great time to get composting.

Adding waste through the cooler weather helps to keep the composting momentum going at a time when decomposition will naturally slow down.

It doesn't stop here though as around a third of all household waste can be composted at home. Anything from loo roll tubes and egg boxes to coffee grounds and tea leaves make great compost and even garden waste can be recycled. Adding spent bedding plants to the compost mix helps capture their nutrients and makes excellent compost for the spring.

Councillor Anthony Blagg, Worcestershire County Council Cabinet Member for Waste and Sustainability said "A compost bin is the perfect surprise gift for any member of the family be they a keen cook or gardener or just someone who likes trying something new. One thing's for sure, it'll definitely be a talking point under the Christmas tree.

"Diverting waste from landfill is everyone's responsibility and you are never to young to start and with a compost bin it's so easy to do. A great value present, buying a compost bin could not be simpler."

Residents can buy a 220 litre compost bin as a present for as little as £12 (including delivery).

For more information call calling 0844 571 4444; visit http://www.hw.getcomposting.com/