This year’s local Christmas treecycling efforts have smashed records, raising over £53,000 between them for two Dorset-based charities – Weldmar Hospicecare and Diverse Abilities.
In Weldmar Hospicecare’s annual Treecycle campaign, more than 1,600 trees were collected in early January from homes across Dorset, raising £18,085 to support adults with life-limiting illnesses and their families. Now a firm fixture in Weldmar’s fundraising calendar, the initiative is as much about community as it is about sustainability: ‘Treecycle has become part of my Christmas tradition,’ said Fiona Hansford, Weldmar’s Fundraising Lead. ‘We’re blown away by the support from residents, local businesses and volunteers – we couldn’t do it without them.’
All trees were disposed of sustainably, with Knighton Countryside Management processing the chippings for biomass fuel. Local support came from Trinity Street Christmas Trees, Bridport Freemasons, Beaminster Motors and several others who lent vehicles, volunteers and drop-off sites.
Meanwhile, Dorset’s disability charity Diverse Abilities saw its own Treecycling scheme break new ground – collecting a staggering 2,488 trees over just one weekend and raising more than £35,000. More than 100 volunteers gave up 840 hours of their time to support the collection, backed by local firms including Wessex Water, Avon Material Supplies, and MATA Construction.
The money raised could fund an entire year of Diverse Abilities’ STARS sibling support service, which provides a safe and understanding space for children growing up alongside a disabled brother or sister.
‘We’re overwhelmed by the support we’ve received,’ said Francesca Potton, Community Fundraiser at Diverse Abilities. ‘A huge thank you to everyone who booked a collection and to all the amazing volunteers and businesses who made this possible.’
Between them, the two charities saved nearly four tonnes of waste from landfill, repurposing the trees into renewable fuel – a perfect blend of community spirit, sustainability and support for two of Dorset’s vital charities. Both organisations hope to grow their schemes even further next year: you can already register your interest in Diverse Abilities’ 2027 campaign at diverseabilities.org.uk/trees
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