HUMAN waste will be recycled as part of a community garden project after it received £2,250 in funding.

The County Durham Environmental Trust (Cdent) has awarded Brandon Allotments Ltd the cash to build a composting toilet and water collection system.

Formed in 2000, the organisation preserves local allotments, cultivating organic fruit and vegetables to promote healthier lifestyles.

It employs environmentally-friendly methods and has introduced a wildlife retreat, bird boxes, an organic vegetable patch and composting boxes.

The association is also encouraging environmental education, and has established a community garden with a greenhouse, classroom area and workshop. A small collection of livestock owned by members is kept on neighbouring allotments.

Having received funding from sources including Cdent, the association plans to offer training, workshops on organic gardening and demonstrations for schoolchildren and community groups.

John Kitching, company secretary, who is soon to receive a Fellowship Millennium Award, said: "The garden is due to open in summer, with the new toilet facility in place, from 9am until 4pm each day.

"It has a lot to offer, and with various plants and wildlife to observe and two recycling schemes under way, we can educate people about the benefits of giving something back to the environment."