ONCE the Christmas festivities are over, revellers are often left wondering what to do with their trees.

But thanks to a new scheme Christmas trees can be recycled and composted at two garden centres in the Chiltern district in the New Year.

In partnership with Chiltern District Council, the Rowan Garden Centre in Gorelands Lane, Chalfont St Giles, and the South Heath Garden Centre in Meadow Lane, Great Missenden, are offering to recycle trees.

The scheme will operate from January 4-26.

Alternatively trees can be cut into smaller pieces and placed into residents' green recycling bins, if they have one.

Unwanted bulky items can also be taken to the nearest Household Waste Recycling Centre instead of going to landfill tips. Go to www.buckscc.gov.uk/environment/waste,-recycling-and-treatment/household-waste-and-recycling-centres/ for more details.

Waste collection dates in the district will change over the Christmas period. Residents are advised to consult their waste collection calendar or go to www.chiltern.gov.uk for more information.

Chiltern District Council's cabinet member for waste, Cllr Peter Martin, said: "This is the one time of the year when we can all over-indulge - but that does create increased levels of waste. The need to reduce the amount we send to landfill doesn't stop over Christmas, however, and simple measures we can all take make a big difference. You'll save money and protect the environment at the same time."