Tree-mendous response to recycling despite weather

Residents braved the freezing conditions this week to recycle more than 50 real Christmas trees at special shredding sessions held by Hertsmere Borough Council.

All but one session went ahead as planned at car parks throughout the borough so people could dispose of their trees in an easy and environmentally friendly way.

Councillor Jean Heywood, Environment Portfolio Holder, said: "Even with the recent cold weather and snow, residents turned up to the sessions to recycle their trees which is great news for the environment."

Trees were put through a shredding machine on site and then taken away to be mixed with other materials to make mulch which is put on shrub beds throughout the parks in the borough to help keep weeds down and moisture in the ground.

Cllr Heywood added: "Thanks go to all those who took their trees along.  I hope recycling more waste is one of everyone's New Year's resolutions!"

A total of 20 trees were shredded at The Venue car park in Borehamwood, 25 at Newberries car park in Radlett and 10 at Oakmere car park in Potters Bar.  The session at Kemp Place car park in Bushey had to be cancelled because of the poor weather and conditions.

If you still need to get rid of your real Christmas tree, you can take it to a Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) at Allum Lane in Elstree, Cranborne Road in Potters Bar or Wiggenhall Road in Watford.  Alternatively chop it up and put it in your green/brown bin.

Please remove all decorations from your tree before you recycle it.

Don't forget to recycle your Christmas cards through the Woodland Trust scheme at Marks and Spencer, WHSmith and T.K. Maxx until 31 January.

For more information on HWRCs call 0300 1234 051.

For more information on how to recycle more call 020 8207 7480.