A VOLUNTEER with Sue Ryder's annual Christmas tree recycling scheme is urging others to get involved.

This is Bea Hopwood's fifth year helping out with the initiative.

The 66-year-old has been supporting the venture since the death of her husband, Steve, who was cared for by the team at Oxenhope Sue Ryder hospice Manorlands.

"When Steve died I decided I wanted to give something back to the hospice," says Bea.

"That’s when I got involved in volunteering for the 'Christmas Treecycling' scheme."

People with a real tree this festive season can register now for the venture.

Once the festive period is over, householders' trees are collected from their front door, garden or driveway, in exchange for a donation.

All proceeds go to the charity, and the trees are turned into compost or wood chippings for use in parks, gardens and landscaping projects.

Support for the scheme is provided by Skipton Self Drive and Keighley Tree Services.

Bea adds: "We have volunteers on the vans from 8am to 9pm every day. It’s probably the hardest physical fundraising we do, but it’s perfect after indulging at Christmas! We raise a massive amount of money, and without a big outlay either.

"I would encourage anyone to give it a go – we are always looking for more volunteers, and people who do it for the first time always say how much they enjoy it.

"You do need to be a good driver and physically able to do the role, as you’re in and out of a van and dragging trees around for a three-hour shift. If it sounds like something you want to try, then come give it a go!"

Anyone interested in helping should contact the Manorlands fundraising team on 01535 640430 or manorlands.fundraising@sueryder.org

People in the postcode areas BD13-18, BD20-24, LS29 and HX2, 3 and 7 can book a collection.

Andrew Wood, community fundraising manager at Manorlands, says: "The tradition of choosing and decorating the perfect Christmas tree is one that many people cherish, but we don't always know what to do with our real trees once the lights are down and decorations boxed up.

"This is where our Treecycling scheme can help."

For more about the scheme and to book, visit sueryder.org/dalestreecycling

The deadline is noon on January 5, but people are advised that bookings may close early depending on demand.

Collection will take place between January 6 and 15.