NORTH Somerset Council is encouraging people to donate their Christmas trees for good causes now that the festive season is behind us.

Now in the third year of the programme, the council suggests giving trees to places like Noah's Ark Zoo and Farm in Wraxall, which will use the trees as a form of animal enrichment.

The zoo is accepting trees between January 2 and 23. Trees should be left in the main car park during zoo opening times (10.30am to 4pm).

Donating the trees to hospices like St Peter's and Weston Rotary Pines for Pounds, which collects for Weston Hospicecare, is also a great way to dispose of an unwanted item while still helping the local community.

The trees will also be used for land regeneration. 

Councillor Mike Solomon, North Somerset Council’s executive member for community and neighbourhood services, said: “North Somerset Council is very happy to support these Christmas tree schemes again this year.

“They’re great ways in which people can support local communities and charities – last year's collections raised over £26,000 – while following a sustainable approach.

“Instead of becoming another waste item after the festive period, it’s positive to see the trees being repurposed and used again as a valuable resource.

“As this is all done locally, it helps cut down on transportation and carbon emissions, while supporting our commitment to tackle the climate emergency.”

For more information on Christmas tree donations and how to recycle them, click here.