Tree-mendous start to 2026 as Rainbow Hub smashes their target and recycles over 1050 trees

A wonderful team of volunteer collectors and vans saved families time and hassle by collecting over 1050 trees smashing their record last year of 900 trees. This year’s collection is sponsored by Fletchers Solicitors, Spar and 186hr.

The volunteers spent nearly three days visiting areas around their Mawdesley base including Ormskirk, Chorley, Horwich, Blackrod, Shevington, Hesketh Bank, Tarleton, Burscough, Croston, Longton, Leyland, Lostock Hall and Bamber Bridge.

After collection, some of the trees were put through chipping equipment and the chippings are sent to a local biomass factory to be used for renewable energy and others were used for conservation projects. A win for the charity and a win for the environment.

In addition to collections and chipping equipment, other supporters provided skips, tools, technical support, expert route planning and much appreciated refreshments. Volunteers of all ages gathered to help.

Emma Parish, Corporate Relations and Events Manager, Rainbow Hub, said, “Once again we have been completely blown away by this absolutely mega weekend, the support we have received from our local community and the difference we have made together. This event has grown year on year and this is a truly fabulous start to 2026.

To every single person and company involved, both in collecting, providing equipment and using the service and generously donating, we give our heartfelt thanks which doesn’t even start to express our tremendous gratitude. There are so many special people involved that we cannot thank everyone individually but a special mention must go to our wonderful sponsors Fletchers Solicitors, Spar and 186hr who continue to show their unwavering support.

We are very grateful for a fantastic group of volunteers and helpers on site, our collection crews, staff, neighbours and our tree recycling herors. Thank you HSBC, Halifax, Envirocare Grounds Maintenance, Brysdales, Ventbrook, Evans Halford Ford, The Tree Barn, Jambo Property Services, Elite Metal Fabs, Pye Builders NW Ltd, JCR Recycling, Barlow Trailers, AP Broome Landscapes, M Group, Dodd Tree Contractors, M Taylor Plant & Agri Solutions, CGL Landscape Maintenance Contractors, Jones Couriers, String, Mendo Design, Signs & Print and Rayner Rowan ...without their help it would not have been possible.

Grateful thanks to Farrels Butchers, Graham Eyes Churchtown, Ashlea Butchers, Greenhalgh, Morris Bakers, Booths Burscough, Spar Mawdesley, Asda Skelmersdale & Chorley and Tesco Southport for the refreshments plus delicious cakes from Kay White, Jenny Searls and Natalie Hardman – we were spoilt!

The atmosphere was truly special – community spirit at its best. We will be back again next year with an even higher target – if you would like to join us we would love to hear from you!”

For information on Rainbow Hub and its work visit www.rainbowhub.org or follow us on social media @rainbowhubnw