Residents who like the idea of growing their own plants, fruits and vegetables can get a head start at Hackney’s free Compost Day event, part of International Compost Awareness Week, at the Petchey Academy on Saturday 7 May.

Doctor Compost will be on hand to answer composting queries at the Council’s free event between 11am and 3pm in Shackelwell Lane E8, where local people will also be able to pick up some of the free compost on offer.

Highlights on the day include a working wormery, activities for children, a seeds and seedling swap, a sustainable transport information stall and Hackney City Farm’s ecobike. You can also meet the Council’s Recycling Team who will be on hand to offer recycling tips and advice.

Councillor Feryal Demirci, Cabinet Member for Neighbourhoods, said: “These events are great fun and a fantastic way for people to find out more about reducing waste by composting. They can see how things like grass cuttings and kitchen scraps turn into rich compost, and I encourage people to come along with their families and find out how they can do their bit to help make Hackney greener.

Free parking for compost loading is available onsite, as well as a bike rail for cyclists.

For more information about waste prevention in Hackney call 020 8356 6688, or visit the Council’s website: www.hackney.gov.uk/wasteprevention