Hackney Otter: January 2015

Photo by Tori Mayo

Wondering why Dalston's conservation area is carpeted in pine needles or why the streets following January 5 resemble a post Christmas apocalypse or Day of the Triffids Festive Special?

Real Christmas trees purchased from the likes of Broadway Market and Columbia Road which spent a few happy weeks basking in the warm glow of twinkling fairy lights and trussed up in tinsel have been disposed of - left out the cold.

Looking characterful, one in particular seems it couldn't escape quick enough, scaling a wall in the process and landing with a thump. Others group together, hiding behind a wall ready to make a run for it.

A pair lay slumped outside The Prince George Pub in the early hours apparently drunk on mulled wine or a few too many London Fields Pale Ales.

Environmentally speaking there are pros and cons in the real versus fake debate. Grown and cut down just for those who feel only real fir will do, this sorry hangover lining the pavements seems rather shameful.

However it's reassuring to know there's a happy ending for these discarded symbols of Christmas past. They will go on to have a brighter future enriching the local environment.

The corners and curbs of the borough will be cleared of Christmas trees by Hackney Council and the timber recycled. They will be collected within 48 hours of being left outside properties, visible from the road, on rubbish and recycling collection days, during the first two weeks of January.

Trees will be collected from those who live in a block or estate where they are left next to the communal bins.

The wood will be shredded and turned into compost to be used in Hackney's parks and gardens.

Happy New Year everyone!

Dalston's Christmas trees left out in the cold

Trees will be collected from those who live in a block or estate where they are left next to the communal bins.