Moreton Valence-based transport operator CM Downton has stepped in to help Longfield Hospice to recycle Christmas trees after the original haulier was unable to help.

The support from Downton helped the Burleigh-based hospice to raise the maximum amount of money through its Christmas tree recycling scheme.

Longfield collected trees from local homes, businesses, schools, pubs and hotels during early January in return for a small donation to the hospice, typically around £10 per tree.

Volunteers from the hospice delivered the trees to one of four sites - Cirencester, Fromebridge, Stroud or Dursley - across Gloucestershire.

The trees were then taken to Burleigh and shredded into wood chippings for use in the hospice's garden or resold in bags to the public.

Together the donations and income from the wood chip sales help fund the hospice's activities. The hospice has already raised over £10,000.

The recycling project is supported by Stroud District Council and a number of local businesses, garden centres and tree growers.

Downton was approached for help after the original haulier was unable to provide support due to unforeseen circumstances. The transport specialist provided drivers, helpers and one of its commercial vehicles to pick up the trees from the collection sites and deliver them to Longfield in Burleigh on January 11.

In total around 1,500 trees were collected which will produce up to 15 tonnes of wood chippings.

Longfield supports adults with life-limiting illness from diagnosis onwards, helping them to understand their illness, to cope better with its impact on their lives, and to live well. It supports their family and carers too and provides a hospice at home service, enabling people in the last three months of life to stay at home, if that is their choice.

Kate Downton, director at CM Downton, said: "This is a very good local cause and we were very happy to step in and lend some support at short notice so that Longfield could make the most from the scheme.

"Not only does the money raised go to help people in a time of need but the scheme also ensures more trees are recycled rather than ending up in landfill or simply dumped."

Picture caption: Staff from Downton and Longfield collecting Christmas trees for recycling.