Tree-mendous recycling scheme proves a post-Christmas cracker for charity

Most are made into chippings, which can be used by schools or farms. Some are used in the gardens at the children’s hospice in North Anston, while others have benefited Yorkshire Wildlife Park.

And the scheme has now raised more than £80,000 for the children’s hospice since its 2021 launch.

Beth Cole, Bluebell Wood events fundraiser, said: “Our Christmas tree recycling is providing a useful service for people and their donations — a suggested minimum of £10 — is proving a big support for us.”

The service is made possible thanks to businesses which loan vans and staff.

This year, 30 volunteer drivers from 25 companies have been collecting 30 trees a day from Rotherham, Doncaster, Chesterfield, Sheffield, Barnsley, Doncaster and Worksop.

And slots can already be booked for next Christmas via the children’s hospice’s website.

“Giving people all year to sign up will hopefully mean we get to collect thousands more trees next January, and raise a much bigger sum,” said Beth.

The hospice is also seeking more companies willing to become collectors next January. Contact [email protected].