A record-breaking £47,000 has been raised for St Margaret's Hospice Care through its biggest-ever Christmas Tree Collection across Somerset.

From Tuesday to Thursday, 9–11 January 2026, more than 2,700 real trees were picked up from homes county-wide in return for donations, marking the highest total since the annual scheme began six years ago.

Delivered in partnership with JustHelping, the collection offers a sustainable alternative to landfill while supporting local hospice care. All trees were responsibly recycled into woodchip for reuse, including in the hospice's own gardens.

Steph Cox, Head of Engagement at St Margaret's Hospice, said: "Once again, Somerset has shown what an amazing community it is. The Christmas Tree Collection just keeps getting bigger and better, and this year was no exception. None of it would be possible without our brilliant supporters and volunteers."

The 2026 campaign saw St Margaret's partner with Children's Hospice South West to expand collections in TA1, TA2 and TA3 postcodes. More than 260 volunteers took part, helping with tree lifting, loading, route planning, traffic management and refreshments.

Jenny Staton from Wessex Water, which fielded five teams of volunteers, said: "It's great fun and a really positive way to help support such a vital local charity in our community. We're looking forward to collecting even more trees next year."

The fundraiser was supported by dozens of local firms donating time, equipment, vehicles or sponsorship. Headline sponsors included Oneline Surveys and Qube Construct Ltd.

Funds raised will go towards providing free palliative care across Somerset, much of it in patients' own homes.

For more about St Margaret's Hospice Care or to get involved, visit the official website.

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