Traders spruce up Christmas tree appeal for Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall Hospice

The Covid pandemic looked to have uprooted Nene Valley Tree Services’ traditional Christmas tree recycling fund-raiser for the hospice through a shortage of delivery drivers.

But, after an appeal for help, members of Peterborough’s Safe Local Trades members supported by fellow traders pitched in and are hoping that they will have helped the appeal to match the £3,800 raised last year.

Lucy Stone of the tree surgeons, based in Warmington, said: “Due to the pandemic, we didn’t have as many collection drivers this year, and the tier restrictions have stopped us from covering the large area we would have liked.

“Following a request for volunteers, we have received some wonderful help – including from fellow Safe Local Trades members who gave up their time to travel around Peterborough collecting trees and bringing them to us to be chipped and turned into mulch, in return for a donation from the owners.”

Among those lending a hand to ensure the charity does not miss out are Daniel Harrington of Be Homes Smart Property Maintenance and Derren McPartlin of DMC Plastering.

SLT members Signs Express have also donated printed banners free of charge to promote the incentive.

Eileen Le Voi, director of Safe Local Trades, said: “I am super proud of our members Lucy and Andy Stone of Nene Valley Tree Services going the extra mile this year for such a wonderful cause.

“Despite the challenges of the pandemic and the tier system affecting Peterborough and the surrounding area, they were determined to continue their annual great work for the charity, along with help of generous volunteers Daniel and Derren.

“My huge thanks to all the members that assisted in this project.”

Nene Valley Tree Services will be accepting trees up until January 12.

Customers can bring their tree to the Red Lion in Warmington and make a donation online at Nene Valley Tree Heros fundraising for Sue Ryder on JustGiving or alternatively they can request a pick up via www.nenevalleytreeservices.com/christmas-tree-cycling-for-sue-ryder