HOMEOWNERS got the chance to spruce up their homes and give money to a worthy cause thanks to a charity recycling scheme.

St Mary's Hospice in Ulverston brought back their annual 'treecycling' scheme to help people dispose of their old Christmas trees.

At the weekend volunteers gathered at Charnley's garden centre in Dalton before setting out to collect more than 300 trees, raising thousands of pounds in the process.

Speaking before the collection Sarah Simpson, marketing coordinator for the hospice said: "We're a bit nervous as it's going to be a big day."

The reason behind the nerves was this was the largest collection the hospice had ever attempted.

By allowing people to pre-book a collection the group headed into the weekend with 330 applications.

However, the fears were unfounded as the weekend went off without a hitch thanks to the hard work of everyone involved.

Ms Simpson said: "We are overwhelmed at the community spirit and support. What an achievement. Over 330 Christmas trees were collected in our best ever year. We are hoping to raise £3,000."

The final total is still being calculated but the hospice estimate they have so far raise more than £2,500.

Marc Charnley, owner of the garden centre, said: "We really look forward to helping out every year, as it gives us chance to work alongside other like-minded people who all give their time up for this great cause.

David McKendry, business development manager at RfM Chartered Accountants, added: "It was an early start on Saturday morning and my wife reminded me 'you're doing it for my dad', which is all the inspiration you need. You never forget these things."