MEET Wrexham tree surgeon Fred Archer who for the last decade has been turning mulch into money to raise nearly £5,000 for Hope House Children's Hospice.

The owner of longstanding family business Basic Arbor Treework, based in Penycae, invites members of the public to come and help themselves to as much garden mulch as they need.

In return, he asks them to make a voluntary donation to the children's hospice.

Over the last 10 years, a total of £4,858 has been raised from the mulch sales.

It costs £1,300 to care for one child for one day at Hope House Children's Hospice so Fred's fundraising is a huge help, particularly as the charity lost £1.25m in income last year.

Speaking after collecting the latest batch of coins totalling £1,012.76, hospice area fundraiser Cat Dowdeswell said: "We are always thrilled to pick up the phone to our supporters and the creativity of our community never ceases to make us smile.

"Who knew there could be money to be raised through off cuts from the tree surgery business?!

"We are caring for 48 families in Wrexham either through respite care, end of life care or bereavement counselling so Fred is doing an amazing thing for the people of Wrexham."

  • If you have a novel way to raise money or have been inspired by Fred to do something to help Hope House contact the office on 01691 671671. For more information about the hospice visit hopehouse.org.uk