I’d Like To Know

Q I would like to know if privet hedge cuttings are fine to put into the compost heap to rot down. E.F.G., Sheffield.

A We sought the advice of our very own gardening expert, Alexandra Campbell, who says, “Privet hedge clippings should be fine in the compost. The key is to cut them up small. If you have a lot of clippings, it can be a good ideadea to add some paper or cardboard in, too, just to vary the ingredients in the compost pile.

“Larger twigs and branches take much longer to compost down, so cut them up for firewood if you have a log burner or open fire. If not, stack them at the backs of borders for wildlife to enjoy.

“If you’re using prunings for firewood, you need to store them somewhere dry for at least a year, or they will be too ‘green’.”

Q I have a number of CDS by the American country singer Slim Whitman. Can you tell me a little bit more about him? D.C., Bradford.

A Slim Whitman was born Ottis Dewey Whitman, Jr. in Florida in 1923. As well as country music, he was also known for his yodelling abilities and folk music. He was married with two children. His career spanned almost six decades and he has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The singer died in 2013, aged ninety.

Q I was recently in Scotland on holiday and the coach tour guide pointed out a war memorial which had the dates 1914-1919. Why is this if the war ended on November 11, 1918? Mrs M.S., Cheshire.

A The dates can vary depending on each community. According to the website www.ukwarmemorials.org, some mark Armistice Day, while others choose the signing of the Peace Treaty of Versailles on June 28, 1919. Some even opt for when Parliament officially declared the end of war on August 31, 1921.