PEOPLE will be able to pick out their own sustainable home-grown Christmas tree at a Purbeck nature reserve next month.

RSPB Arne’s Pull a Pine weekend returns on Saturday, December 2 and Sunday, December 3.

Removing pine trees growing on ancient heathland, the public help restore one of the most precious UK habitats which is home to wildlife such as the silver studded blue butterfly, sand lizards and Dartford warblers.

Lesley Gorman, visitor operations manager at RSPB Arne, said: “As conservation events go, this is definitely a win-win for everyone! Our visitors have a great day out and get to choose a lovely wonky Christmas tree with character to take home. In terms of the nature reserve, it’s about removing an invasive species that would take over our precious heathland, given the chance.”

Lesley added: “It would take staff and volunteers weeks, if not months, to achieve what’s done in a single weekend at Pull-a-Pine. Last year’s event saw more than 15,000 small pine trees removed over a weekend, a huge effort in allowing this special place to maintain a healthy mix of landscapes and homes for wildlife.”

Taking place between 10am and 3pm, the event will feature entertainment, live music, refreshments, food, and mulled cider.

There will also be Christmas crafting activities and a Christmas Fayre, featuring stalls for locally-made artisan items and festive gifts and carol singing.

Pre-booking is essential.