If you’re wondering what to do with your real Christmas tree once the decorations come down, Wigan & Leigh Hospice has confirmed the return of its Christmas tree collection service for January 2026.
The scheme will run from Monday 12 January to Wednesday 14 January 2026 and offers a simple, stress-free way to recycle your tree while supporting hospice care for local families. After registering online and making a donation, volunteers will collect your tree from outside your home and make sure it is recycled responsibly.
The annual collection has become a popular way for people across Wigan and Leigh to give something back after the festive period, while avoiding trips to the tip and the mess of fallen pine needles at home.
Lindsey Butler, Fundraising and Community Engagement Manager at Wigan & Leigh Hospice, said the campaign continues to be a favourite with both supporters and staff.
“This is one of our favourite campaigns because it really is a win-win for everyone,” she said. “Last year, thanks to the incredible support from the community, we collected around 500 trees and raised £11,000.
“Every donation helps us continue providing care for people with life-limiting illnesses, and we honestly couldn’t do it without the amazing support we receive across Wigan and Leigh.”
Christmas tree collection at a glance:
register your tree via the Just Helping website by 11:59pm on Wednesday 7 January 2026
remove all decorations, pots and bases
leave your tree outside in a clear, visible spot by 8am on the day of collection
collections will take place between Monday 12 January and Wednesday 14 January 2026
Funds raised through the scheme help support the hospice’s vital services. The charity needs £18,500 every day to keep running, with around £12,000 of that needing to be raised through fundraising and donations from the community.
