CHIRISTMAS trees are heading back to their roots as part of a forest recycling scheme.

With every Christmas tree sold at Guisborough Forest and Walkway, in Pinchinthorpe, staff issued an invitation to the customer to return it after the festive period.

In the annual recycling initiative, they hire a "mulcher" to turn the trees to woodchips, which are then used for laying under hedges and picnic tables.

This year's operation has already begun, with a pile of unwanted spruces being assembled in the car park.

Deborah Jefferson, an assistant warden at the Forest, said: "This is something that we do every year as we would rather put the trees to good use if we can.

"Last year we were absolutely chock-a-block with them, and this year we are hoping for similar success."