If you're already thinking about how to dispose of that Christmas tree, here's a reminder of how Maldon and Burnham residents can do so from their doorsteps - and raise cash for a local good cause.

Those living in the district can have their Christmas trees taken away and recycled from their doorsteps once the festivities are over for the cost of a donation to Farleigh Hospice.

The hospice's Christmas tree recycling scheme will be running the annual doorstep collection service as usual on 8, 9 and 10 January.

A team of volunteers will carry out the collections across mid Essex, picking up Christmas trees from homes and businesses. All that is asked for in return is a donation to the charity, which runs hospice services for the area. Farleigh Hospice cares for around 6,000 people every year with life-limiting illnesses.

As well as Maldon, Burnham and Southminster, the vans will visit Braintree, Chelmsford, Coggeshall, Dunmow, Kelvedon, South Woodham Ferrers, Halstead, Witham and surrounding areas.

Ninety per cent of the money raised will go direct to the hospice and the remaining 10 per cent to other local charities.

For more information, including all the locations that will be visited and to book a collection visit the Farleigh Hospice website here or call 01245 457411.