In article , R
writes
I have just got some free horse manure from a farm (I assume it's just
been "laid"! as they have a continual supply). It does have a fair
amount of straw mixed in.

I want to use it for my expanding veg plot (raised beds), and wondered
should I

a) Dig it neat into top soil. If so, should I leave it for a certain
period, and is it OK to leave it in closed plastic bags?

or

b) Use it to start my compost bin? I have a 280 litre bin just
delivered and have heard that you can add manure to compost bin. If
so, should it be added sparingly or can I just throw a load in?

Go for b). Put the whole lot in, but don't "just throw it in". Apply it
in layers, keeping the top of the heap reasonably level. If you have any
other garden material such as grass cuttings etc., put that between the
layers. If any of the horse manure has a lot of straw in it, put that at
the bottom of the heap and the straw will take up soe of the moisture
which seeps down. There's an urg FAQ on composting at:
http://www.nugget.demon.co.uk/MetaFAQ/organic.html
--
Alan & Joan Gould - North Lincs.