Trash collectors will not be picking up Christmas trees until later this month — and the Ministry of Public Works is asking householders not to put them out for collection until nearer the dates.

An incorrect story stating that tree collection would begin today (Wednesday) appeared on page three of yesterday’s edition of The Royal Gazette and on our website and we apologise for that error.

The correct dates are Wednesday, January 22 for the East End and Wednesday, January 29 for the West End.

A Public Works spokeswoman said that on those dates, trees should be taken to the normal residential waste pickup location in order to be collected, with all ornaments removed.

“Like all other horticultural waste, Christmas trees are shredded prior to composting,” she said. “We’d like to remind the public to remove all tinsel, lights, ornaments and tree bags.

“This keeps our staff safe from flying metal objects, protects valuable shredding equipment and allows us to produce higher quality finished compost.”

The finished compost is available for free to residents and businesses.

For more information on compost contact the March Folly composting facility at 292-1517 or 292-7454.

For information on Government’s waste management programme, visit www.wastemanagement.gov.bm or www.facebook.com/recyclebermuda or see the blue pages in the BTC phone book.