FREE waste education programmes are being offered to primary schools in West Devon so children can learn all about the beasts that live at the bottom of the compost heap and how to make less rubbish at home and school.

'Resource Futures' carry out waste education programmes on behalf of local councils and are keen to spread the word about what they have to offer to local schools — free of charge.

For instance, they spent a day with pupils at St Andrew's Primary School, Buckland Monachorum, shortly before they broke up for the summer.

The children learnt about compost bins, and the herbivores and carnivores that live in them; how these 'mini beasts' help to recycle the nutrients in the garden waste; and how they, the children, can do their bit to make less rubbish.

The day was a hit with both the children and their teachers, mirroring the experiences of other schools within the county which have taken up the opportunities offered by Resource Futures.

Alex Mack, waste education officer from Resource Futures, said: 'St Andrew's are doing a fantastic job at reducing their waste at school and trying to become more sustainable. They are really enthusiastic about the three Rs — Reduce, Re-use, Recycle — and they came up with some great ideas for things they can do at home.

'We are impressed by the commitment shown by all the children we have worked with on these programmes.'

Cllr Robert Sampson, chairman of West Devon Borough Council's Environment and Community Committee, said: 'Resource Futures do a fabulous job, offering schools workshops to learn about waste issues, and I would encourage all schools to take advantage of the opportunity.'

The waste education programmes are sponsored by local authorities across Devon as part of the 'Don't let Devon go to Waste' campaign.

For further information about Resource Futures contact Alex Mack on 07944 791971, or for details on waste minimisation visit http://www.recycledevon.org">www.recycledevon.org