Millipede. I think they eat dead leaves and wood.

Yup they do Hywel

Thank you. So they don't pose a threat to garden plants, either above or below ground?

If disturbed millipedes they coil up like a garden hose. Centipedes run away usually or stand their ground and bite, rare. They are of great value both in the compost bin and the garden in that they consume dead plant materials. Don't worry, be happy.

I agree, be thankful you have them along with wood lice to consume dead plant matter.

could also be a centipede many several different species. if its a fast runner more likely to be a centipede as they are predators. if its slow more likely to be a millipede. both to be found in compost bins.

They are not insects either but myriapods and the difference between these 2 major sub groups are :if each body segment has 1pr of legs its a centipede, if 2 pairs per body segment its a millipede.

Thanks everyone. I will never willingly kill another!

I think both centipedes and millipedes are fascinating creatures, something prehistoric and alien about them - it's all those legs I suppose. Just imagine being tiny and having a predator centipede racing towards you, something to give you nightmares if you are that way inclined! As it is they are helpful little creatures and fun to watch disappear when they get disturbed!