A FREE bird box is on offer to gardeners joining a scheme designed to bring wildlife to their doors.

Sevenoaks District Council has once again launched Gardening for Wildlife, a scheme to improve the environment and encourage birds, insects and animals to gardens.

Entrants joining the scheme, which has been running for the past five years and attracted 230 applicants last year, will receive an information pack.

They will get advice on how to plant shrubs, attract wildlife, make compost and save water.

Gardens will graded into categories of bronze, silver, gold and highly commended in September.

Cabinet member with responsibility for the environment Councillor Felicity Broomby said: "You don't have to be an expert. Even the smallest gardens can be a haven to birds and insects."

Go Wild information packs are available from the council offices in Argyle Road, Sevenoaks. For further details, call 01732 227272.