Fire crews collect Christmas trees for charity

BBC Firefighter Charlie Roger in his uniform, throwing a Christmas tree on to a larger pile of trees. BBC
Guernsey Fire and Rescue Service is hoping to surpass the £2,000 raised in 2024

Fire crews in Guernsey are using their time off to collect and dispose of Christmas trees and raise money for charity.

Guernsey Fire and Rescue Service members are collecting the trees in return for a donation to the Fire Fighters Charity, which works to support the health and wellbeing of firefighters.

The service said there had been an increase in the number of people booking a collection, which could see donations surpass the £2,300 raised in 2024.

Firefighter Charlie Roger said: "This is volunteering, on our days off, using our own vehicles as a fun way for us to get together to raise money and help people."

'Massive increase'

The crews have already spent three days collecting trees and will make their final round of collections on Wednesday.

"We've seen a massive increase in bookings," said Mr Roger.

"On our second day we had over 100 trees, so definitely felt tired after that but there is a few of us and we take it turns so it's not so bad.

"This year has been a lot more popular so we are hoping to smash it out of the park."

Mr Roger said the funds raised for the Fire Fighters Charity will help support local crews.

"The money goes to the charity, which covers fire services across the nation and the Channel Islands," he said.

"We've had a few of our firefighters use the services so I guess you could say we've already seen the benefits."

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