A HOSPICE charity has been forced to cancel its Christmas tree collection after the country was plunged into a third national lockdown - which could see it lose around £10,000 in donations.

Weldmar Hospicecare, an end of life care provider for people living in Dorset, was scheduled to run its annual tree recycling scheme this week and was preparing to collect more than 1,000 trees in return for a £10 donation - raising roughly £10,000.

However, the plans had to be abandoned after the lockdown was announced on Monday.

Bosses are offering anyone who signed up to have their tree collected a full refund but are pleading with members of the public to retain the donations despite the service being cancelled to allow it to continue its vital work.

Matt Smith, director of fundraising and marketing for Weldmar, said: "Sadly, the lockdown means that we are simply no longer able to continue with the scheme as planned and are left with no other option than to cancel our plans.

"We understand how disappointing this news is to those who supported us this year with this fundraising activity but we must put the safety of our staff, volunteers, supporters at Magna Housing and our partners at Trinity Street Christmas Trees first.

"We would be extremely grateful if you felt that your donation could still be used by our dedicated team at Weldmar Hospicecare to continue providing vital end of life care with compassion, dignity and respect to those who need us right now.

"We promise to ensure that your support will be invested in the best possible way right here in Dorset."

As previously reported, the charity has suffered huge financial losses during the pandemic, losing roughly £250,000 during the second national lockdown in November.

This has coincided with demand for services increasing and charity bosses are urging people to continue to support them.

Matt said: "Since the start of Covid-19, we have seen the demand for our services significantly increase as we’ve continued to provide care and support right on the front line.

"We rely heavily on our supporters, your generosity, passion and dedication to our charity."

The charity has confirmed the tree recycling scheme is scheduled to take place again next year.

For more information on Weldmar, visit www.weld-hospice.org.uk