SCHOOLS in Alvechurch and Wythall are being challenged to grow the tallest sunflower.

Bromsgrove Council is asking pupils to grow the flower to encourage more people to recycle kitchen and garden waste.

The competition was launched last week but the schools will have to wait until the autumn before the results are released.

Each school has been sent two packets of seeds and are asked to monitor the growth of their flowers.

When they feel they have reached their maximum height, council officers will visit each school to measure up.

The winning school will get a compost bin, waterbutt, selection of seeds and bulbs and a certificate.