A SCOUT group recycled Christmas trees to help boost its funds.

Volunteers from the 33rd Slaithwaite Scout Group spent the weekend collecting and chipping trees. Dozens of people flocked to take advantage of the scheme, held in a car park in Carr Lane.

Group leader Richard Izzard was helped by Andy Jones, who donated the use of a chipper from his Leeds Road firm Rapid Hire Centres. Chippings from the trees will be used on the grounds of St James’ Church in Slaithwaite to help prevent weeds.

The collection was such a success that the group are planning to hold another next year.

Richard said: “It’s had a really good response and based on that we will be doing another one. The facilities (for tree recycling) are limited as there’s just one tip nearby. Getting rid of trees can be a problem so we thought we’d provide a local facility, and people have been willing to donate to the Scouts too.”

Money raised will go towards camps organised by the Beavers, Cubs and Scouts sections and help fund the group’s annual trip.