A heap of trouble for Titchmarsh

TV Gardener Alan Titchmarsh is said to be risking a bit of a stink - by encouraging gardeners to throw vegetable peelings onto their garden compost heaps.

The Environment Agency reportedly states that the age-old practice of recycling waste to improve the quality of the soil is not only a danger to the public but also illegal.

Fungal spores produced as the compost decomposes are released into the air and can infect neighbours, according to the agency.

As a result, owners of compost heaps need a licence - and if it is within 250 metres of a home or workplace, an environmental risk friendly and, best of all, completely free."

He makes no mention of licences but the National Trust, which has the largest gardens in the country, is applying for hundreds.

Neighbours of Mr Titchmarsh's Hampshire home are relaxed about the possibility of fungal spores from his compost heap. One, who did not wish to be named, said: "I don't mind at all. I have always had a compost heap in my own garden."

The Environment Agency has reportedly said it will not prosecute individuals.

A spokesman also told The Guardian that the regulations will be modified to exempt private householders.

Mr Titchmarsh is today filming his TV show, Ground Force, at a secret location and is unavailable for comment.