Volunteers were out in force as the Christmas tree collection in aid of East Cheshire Hospice returned in style.
Organisers had to scale back last year’s delayed scheme because of lockdown and Covid safety concerns were again the main focus this time.
Early arrivals at the Hospice preparing for the Christmas tree collection.
However, the country’s most successful tree collection was able to go ahead on schedule in its 22nd year, with more than £155,000 raised for the Hospice.
Some 150 volunteers took part last weekend, with a fleet of vans shuttling between homes and the Ansa recycling plant at West Park, Macclesfield.
Ansa depot recyclers (from left) Dave Heeks, Steve Greenaway, Steve Worthington and Mark Birtles.
Almost 7,000 trees were collected and will be turned into compost for parks, gardens and Cheshire farmland.
Until two years ago the depot also housed the so-called Mulchers Arms, a makeshift canteen for refreshments.
This time refreshments were provided at the Hospice for volunteers whose shift times were staggered to prevent a large gathering.
Catering volunteers Kath Jones (left) and Lilly Tester.
The traditional post-event drink at the Cock and Pheasant pub in Bollington was also cancelled this year as a safety measure.
More donors contributed online this year when using the Hospice web page to register for the collection, which had AstraZeneca as main sponsors.
Richard Raymond, co-founder of the scheme, said: Â “We’d like to thank everyone who played their part in making the collection happen again this year.
“It hasn’t been an easy time because of Covid, but the dedication, loyalty and generosity of donors, volunteers and sponsors has meant we’ve enjoyed another hugely successful year.
“The Hospice depends on contributions from our community to continue its vital role caring and supporting those in need.”
The latest collection brings the total raised by the scheme to more than £1.5m.
Long-standing supporters include Bosley-based King Feeders, which loaned a mulching machine, and Cheshire Vehicle Rental.
The first collection team of the day. From left, Steve Bower, Gary Richards and son Criss.
Tree collectors in Broken Cross. James Chapman (left) brother Chris and Caitlin Howarth.