THESE children were among the would-be worm experts who took part in a competition with a difference at Scarcroft Green in York.

They were taking part in the York Rotters’ annual worm-charming competition, which involved teams encouraging the creatures to the surface.

A wormery was awarded to the team that charmed the most worms in a 15-minute period, while York Rotters offered people composting advice.

Catherine Bamford, York Rotters’ project officer, said: “Home compost is really easy to make and the finished product is rich, dark and crumbly, much better than bought compost, with the added benefit of not costing anything and being peat-free.”

York Rotters are also holding a Compost Workout as part of Eco-active day at Friends of St Nicholas Fields, Rawdon Avenue, York, on Saturday, from 10am to 1pm.