The only reason that shavings aren't recommended is that the wood takes a while to break down/rot, and the micro-organisms which do the work draw on and use up nitrogen. On the vegetable garden this is obviously of importance, and counter-productive. The use of wood chips as a mulch, however, on established shrub borders, or in the woodland situation, is of value, as it has been shown that wood chips retain moisture better than other mulches, and provide a vital layer in the 'woodland floor' ecology.

Oh, and don't forget that any manure should be well rotted before use, anyway, so I'd grab it and chuck it on the compost heap in layers with other organic matter to rot down for ensuing years' use.

Thanks for that W1, I'll do as you suggest.