PAUL KEETCH MP RECYCLES CARDS FOR THE 2004 CHRISTMAS CARD RECYCLING SCHEME

1.18.46pm GMT Fri 16th Jan 2004

Paul Keetch MP takes part in The Woodland Trusts and Tesco's Christmas card recycling scheme

Local MP Paul Keetch has donated his Christmas cards to the 2004 Christmas Card Recycling Scheme, run in partnership for the third year by the Woodland Trust, the UK's leading woodland conservation charity, and Tesco.

The scheme, which last year recycled 40 million cards - the equivalent to 800 tonnes, has one very simple aim - to encourage individuals to recycle their old Christmas cards by leaving them in the special recycling bins which will be in all Tesco stores throughout January 2004.

The success of the 2004 Christmas Card Recycling Scheme is vital, because it will help support woodland creation at sites across the UK. In the last five years nearly 4,000 tonnes of cards have been recycled, enabling the Trust to create new woodland and protect what's left of our ancient woodland.

Mr Keetch said: "The Christmas Card Recycling Scheme is fantastic way to recycle and help the environment, and something which deserves all of our support. I would encourage everyone to recycle their cards and help to look after the UK's native woodland."

Cards can be left in the special recycling bins in all Tesco stores across the UK throughout January 20041. Further information about the scheme is available in Tesco stores or by visiting www.tesco-woodland-trust.info

Nottinghamshire County Council, on behalf of the National Association of Waste Disposal Officers, administers the support from local authorities. Severnside Recycling collects and recycles the cards. The scheme is also backed by Defra, the Scottish Executive, Waste Awareness Wales, the Northern Ireland Environment & Heritage Service, and Rethink Rubbish.