The Hospice is proud of the environmental impact of its campaign which has raised more than £2m over 25 years.
Those green credentials have been recognised with a nomination in the social value category at the National Recycling Awards in London on Tuesday, November 25.
Co-founders Richard Raymond and Pete Chapman will attend on behalf of everyone who has contributed towards the scheme’s staggering success.
Indeed, patients far and wide now benefit with some 175 hospices implementing schemes based on the East Cheshire Hospice model.
Richard Raymond (left), wife Tina and Pete Chapman receive MP awards from Tim Roca.
That led to around 250,000 trees being recycled across the country last January, raising £5m for patient care.
The total included 7,324 trees collected by the East Cheshire scheme, generating £160,000 in fundraising.
Community impact, improving the environment and the potential to inspire others are the criteria for judges.
Richard said: “We’re delighted the whole operation has been recognised with this nomination in the social value category.
“The scheme has had widespread influence not just in Cheshire but throughout the UK.
“The fundraising has made a huge difference to all those families all over the country whose loved ones are in a hospice.
“The environmental influence has grown over the years. In the early days we took trees to the tip for landfill, but now they are all recycled for biomass fuel.
Ready for action … Richard (left) and Pete prepare for one of the Hospice tree collections.
“Everyone is now aware of recycling and sustainability, including primary schools who push the environmental story.
“Children want mums and dads to have a real tree because it’s good for the climate.
“Our message is to buy a real Christmas tree, be friendly to the environment and turn your tree into Hospice care by making a donation.”
The nomination caps a memorable year for the long-running scheme.
Macclesfield MP Tim Roca recognised Richard and Pete’s hard work with a special Member of Parliament award in August.
Hospice Income Generation Director Rachel Allcock also received a certificate on behalf of volunteers.
A Mayoral award was also presented, and the collection has received High Sheriff and Queen’s Awards in the past.
Partnerships are also important with Swift Tree Services turning trees into renewable energy after mulching by CRJ Services at the ANSA recycling depot at West Park.
Sponsorship means all donations go directly towards funding patient care. Registrations for the 2026 collection on January 10/11 will open soon.