Dr Kershaw's set to launch the Great Christmas Tree Chip-Off

Will Mowbray, director of WillMow Reclamation, collecting a tree in January last year

Dr Kershaw’s Hospice will be launching its first-ever Great Christmas Tree Chip-Off this weekend to raise money for patients and their families.

If you still have a real Christmas tree languishing in your house, you can take it to Oldham Rugby Union Football Club to be recycled.

From 11am to 3pm, people can drop off their decoration-free Christmas trees for a suggested donation of £10.

On Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th January, families can also stay to watch as their tree is chipped and prepared for recycling.

Some of the chippings will be used for the hospice’s award-winning gardens, where patients can relax and enjoy nature.

Glenn Drake-Owen, community and partnership fundraiser at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, said: “There’s no need to book in advance – you can just turn up on the day.

“It’s a great activity for any little sports fans to learn more about how trees are recycled, plus you’ll be helping patients and their families when they need it the most.”

The hospice is also offering a Christmas tree collection service from January 8-10 in the following Oldham postcodes: OL1, OL2, OL3, OL4, OL8, OL9 and M35.

Slots close on Sunday, January 5 and can be booked online at: drkershawshospice.org.uk/christmastreecollection

To recycle your tree and help to fund patient care, visit Oldham Rugby Union Football Club at Byrth Road, OL8 2TJ.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.