PEOPLE across Worcestershire have been set a challenge to look at the amount of fruit and vegetable peelings they produce and to consider composting these scraps instead of throwing them into their household bin.

Worcestershire County Council says organic material can form up to a third of households' weekly waste, but if it's put into the bin, it goes straight to landfill. People who have material left over from barbecues, parties or Sunday lunches - such as uncooked fruit or vegetable peelings - could use this as compost, which is good for the garden and good for the environment.

Viktoria Salisbury, project development officer for home composting, said: "Those who already have a compost bin could be missing out on the great ingredients in kitchen waste, so officers from the waste management team are reminding people that it will help to produce a great compost. People who do not yet have have a compost bin are encouraged to consider buying one.

"It really surprises me how many vegetable peelings are produced when I cook a meal, particularly if it is a Sunday roast for the whole family. I'd urge residents to actually take a look at the amount of peelings they produce and consider composting them instead of putting them in their bin."

For details on home composting visit www. worcestershire.gov.uk/composting or call the waste management team on 01905 768268.