One of our hardy staff members became volunteer for a day
"Having bought our tree from the Hospice of St Francis back in December, I felt that volunteering to join their Christmas tree collection would prove a fitting end to the festive period. So, on the second Sunday of January with a borrowed van, a small pair of secateurs and a bigger dose of enthusiasm, my fellow volunteer and agile first-time van-driver Adam and I set out around Hemel’s chilly morning streets.
Thanks to the meticulous planning of the fundraising team and the guiding voice of Waze, the tree-dotted route was logical and straightforward. Less logical, however, were the street numbering systems and the places some people hide their Nordmann firs, as if we needed an extra challenge!
As we navigated the cul-de-sacs, crescents, and cottages of Hemel and Berkhamsted, we both felt a sense of camaraderie and momentum building as we worked our way down the addresses on our list. Who spotted a deserted tree first became a game, reversing down the narrow arteries of Castle Street – a monumental achievement. As we refuelled on a Tesco meal deal, we muttered to ourselves, “Who buys a tree this big?” From the comically small to the ridiculously large, we Tetrised tree after tree into the back of the van, until the springy branches were fit to burst.
We unloaded at the drop-off point at Dudswell Field, where the trees would be chipped and reused for community projects. It was hard work – lifting, hauling, and hurling the firs and spruce into the ever-growing bank of trees. But we were buoyed by completing our list by mid-afternoon and felt compelled to tackle the 40+ abandoned trees cluttering the Hospice car park. By the end of the day, my arms ached, my jacket was muddied, but the sense of satisfaction was immense.
So, what did I take home from the Christmas tree collection 2025/26? That I’ll definitely be there again in 2026/27! And if you’re reading this and thinking, “I’d love to help, too” – please do! Whether it’s volunteering your time, lending a van, or simply handing out flyers, every little action makes a huge difference. Generosity shouldn’t end with Christmas, and the Hospice thrives on your kindness all year round."
Léon
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