Christmas Trees: Pines and Needles, Bluewater

A rose-nosed reindeer walks into a bar and the elf says: "Why the long face?" Rudolf duly replies: "I've got pines and needles". Yes, yes? it's a shocker - but it's presumably the inspiration behind this London-based premier Christmas tree service. Pines and Needles was set up by brothers Josh and Sam Lyle 12 years ago when the pair were still studying for their GCSEs. Now it's a veritable festive topiary giant, with outlets in Maida Vale, Battersea, Ealing and the Bluewater Shopping Centre. The Brothers Lyle believe in sustainable forestry and all their trees come from a site in Scotland where a triple-fold re-planting policy is in force. What's more, 10% of all profits go to the Great Ormond Street Hospital - and the boys will even come collect your tree after Christmas for recycling. It's an astoundingly accommodating service and they have a long loyal list of customers who faithfully return to them every year. And hats off must go to the friendly and ever-helpful staff, all of whom wear kilts even on the most freezing of days. Traditional Norway Spruces range from ?21.95 for 3ft to ?109.95 for 12ft; non-drop Nordmann Fir are ?24.95 for 3ft to ?134.95 for 12ft. Potted Fraser Fir are available from ?34.95 and there is a huge selection of stands, lights, decorations, wreaths, holly, mistletoe, and garlands. The flagship stall is in Maida Vale where the Lyles started selling trees outside their older brother's laundrette.