Even if they had never heard of compost awareness week, gardeners were queueing up for the smelly stuff in Radlett last week.

Hertsmere Borough Council organised the giveaway as part of the international awareness event, and householders also had the opportunity to swap seeds and gardening tips.

Recycling officer Gemma Paris said: “We’ve run the compost giveaway for several years now and this year was the most popular, it was great to see so many residents join in. But apologies to anyone who missed out as the compost was all gone before we expected.”