Two festive family workshops are being held in Tavistock to transform everyday waste into beautiful eco-friendly Christmas decorations. Run by Devon-based artist Karen Hawkins, the sessions will help people create a range of seasonal decorations and baubles all from recycled, biodegradable and natural materials. The workshop is being organised by Westden with a grant from West Devon Borough Council and is aimed at inspiring people to reduce their environmental impact at Christmas time. Westden's Diana Lee said: 'We all look forward to Christmas. 'But as we all know Christmas can create a lot of waste which has to be disposed of at a cost to the environment and to the council tax payer. 'As part of our Sustainable Living project, Westden aims to show people some easy and fun ways of making beautiful decorations for their homes — which don't cost the earth.' Five tips for reducing environmental impact this Christmas: 1: Buy presents locally — support your local shops 2: Buy delicious local food for your Christmas dinner — help reduce greenhouse gas producing food miles 3: If buying electrical goods, make sure they are A-rated for their energy efficiency 4: Recycle your Christmas tree 5. Send e-cards or text messages instead of Christmas cards. Cards can be recycled at WH Smith in Tavistock or at the council's Customer Services Centre in St James Street, Okehampton. Recycling officers from West Borough Council will be on hand at the workshop to offer tips and advice. The workshop will run from 10am until noon and 2pm until 4pm at the Parish Rooms on Saturday December 9. The morning and afternoon sessions will be different so families can book for either or both. The cost of each workshop will be £2.50 for adults and £1.50 per child, which includes decorations to take home. To book a place call Westden on 0845 345 5077 or email [email protected]">[email protected]