Christmas tree recycling raises over £7k for hospice

Willow Wood’s Christmas tree recycling service has raised a tree-mendous amount towards supporting patient care at the Hospice.

The recycling initiative, supported by Tameside Council,  allowed residents across the borough to register their festive firs online to be collected and responsibly disposed of in the new year, whilst making a donation of their choice to the Hospice.

In total, 498 real trees were collected and £7,175 has been raised, which will make a difference to patients with a life-limiting illness from our local communities.

Trees were collected between 8th and 12 January and then chipped by the council’s Greenspace team, who will re-use them in local parks.

Tameside Council Executive Member responsible for environmental services Cllr Denise Ward said: “This is a fantastic result and has been a great opportunity for people to so something positive for the environment while also supporting a charity that is important to so many local people and that does a lot of positive, valued work in our community. Thank you to everyone who supported the scheme, you have really helped to make a difference.”

Samantha Kitch, Fundraising Manager at Willow Wood Hospice, said: “On behalf of us all at the Hospice, a sincere thank you to all of our brilliant partners for facilitating the collection and recycling of the trees, and to everyone who registered their trees and donated to Willow Wood.

“We would also like to thank all those who helped to spread the word and raise awareness of the tree recycling service.

“With only 20 per cent of our funding coming from central government, the support we receive from our local communities is absolutely vital.”

The collection and recycling service was also supported by national charity Just Helping, which assists charities, volunteers and businesses to contribute to their community and the environment.

After costs, Willow Wood Hospice will receive 85 per cent of donations and up to 15 per cent will be distributed by Just Helping to other local charities.