WESTON'S Rotary Club has helped raise over £11,000 in Weston Hospicecare's Pines for Pounds event.

The annual charity initiative, which took place on Saturday, January 6, provides a Christmas tree collection service in exchange for a donation.

The scheme, which was also supported by Weston Lions and Somerset Young Farmers, saw 9.8 tonnes of trees dropped at the Weston depot, plus more dropped at other locations in North Somerset.

In total, 24 vehicles were out and about collecting around Weston, as well as BS49, BS25, BS26, BS27, BS29 and BS40 postcodes.

Over 70 volunteers took part, helping with driving, loading and logistics.

779 trees were registered to be collected.

Weston Hospicare's director of fundraising, Julian, said: "Thank you so much for all turning out and collecting nearly 800 trees and raising over £11,000 for Weston Hospicecare.

"This was team work at its very best, everyone happy to turn out early on a Saturday morning and put in a real shift for a great cause.

"A tree-mendous achievement all round. I really can’t thank you enough and I hope to see you all again next year."

Grant from Weston Lions added: "It was great fun, new friends made and a mountain of laughs."