WHETHER you plan to take your Christmas decorations down before New Year's Eve, or into the new year, households should take care when recycling.

Borderers are being urged to be mindful when recycling Christmas cards and trees.

Local MP John Lamont, and MSP Rachael Hamilton have shared their hopes that the environment can benefit from fewer items going into general waste.

Mr Lamont said: “I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas filled with joy.

“When you start to think about getting your house back to normal, I’d like to encourage everyone this year to please think about recycling your tree and Christmas cards.

“It might seem like a small thing but it all helps us reach net zero targets.”

Christmas trees, cards, and wrapping paper – even those with glitter or foil on them – can all be taken to any of the Borders' recycling centres.

Rachael Hamilton added: “Merry Christmas to everyone across the Borders.

“Once you recover from the celebrations and start to think about clearing away the decorations, please consider recycling your Christmas cards and tree.

“Every little action like this helps to protect the environment.”

Zero Waste Scotland also has a guide on ways to repurpose old Christmas and other greetings cards.

For more information, visit: www.zerowastescotland.org.uk/resources/what-do-greetings-cards