Kind-hearted residents who supported a popular Christmas tree recycling service have helped raise a record-breaking amount for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices (EACH).
The environmentally-friendly initiative saw an army of volunteers collect unwanted firs in exchange for a donation.
Although the final total is still being totted up, the figure is expected to be in the region of £48,000 and may even topple the £50,000-mark.
“This year’s Christmas tree recycling service proved another runaway success,” said Tina Burdett, EACH’s Community Fundraising Manager.
“Thanks to such incredible support, we collected a record number of trees and were able to raise funds that will make a real, lasting impact.
“Breaking last year’s record is a testament to the extraordinary support for our charity and the trust our community places in us.
“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved together, and this money will directly support our vital work throughout the year, helping us reach more people when they need us most.
“I must also thank our wonderful volunteers and corporate supporters, as none of this would have been possible without their dedication.
“They braved early mornings and challenging weather to make the service run smoothly, and their commitment and generosity were outstanding.”
The scheme was open to more addresses than ever across Cambridgeshire, Essex, Norfolk and Suffolk, and trees were collected on 8th and 9th January. In exchange, residents were asked to make a donation.
It was run in partnership with Just Helping, while the Suffolk project, in conjunction with St Elizabeth Hospice, was sponsored by Jackson Civil Engineering.
Last year’s total of £43,983 eclipsed the 2024 figure of £29,000, which was a 17% increase on 2023.
