DO not just pamper your loved-one this Valentine's Day, do your bit for the environment too. That is the message coming from the county council.

Worcestershire County Council is urging people to be greener and more environmentally friendly and recycle when they give presents and cards today.

"Valentine's Day, like most celebrations, creates more waste than usual and it is important to try to minimise the amount of wastage and recycle when possible," said Amy Bayliss, the county's waste management promotions assistant.

"Around 24 million Valentine's cards are sent in the UK each year, so when buying them, make sure they are made of recycled paper - and then recycle them afterwards.

"Or save paper and money by sending an e-card," she suggests. "An electronic alternative would prove particularly useful for those people intending to send more than one card.

"When Valentine's Day is over, people can recycle all their unwanted cards at the local paper bank or at a kerbside collection scheme.

"Flowers can be put into a compost bin after they have reached their best and empty champagne bottles can be put in a bottle bank," Ms Bayliss added.

n Visit www.recycle now.com for fresh ideas for recycled and eco-friendly presents and gifts. Also, to find out about how to obtain reduced price compost bins, call 0845 0732001.