Q Will old rat droppings have contaminated my compost?

Paul Holland, Rutland

A BOB SAYS Yes to some degree but bird droppings are just as hazardous! Mixed into compost they’ll be broken down to some extent, more so if the bin heats up.

Be sensible by wearing gloves when handling the compost. Put contaminated compost in rather than on your soil, especially with ornamentals and fruit trees.

Take care with what you put on your compost heap – rats love apple peel