'HOT' Christmas trees could be flooding the market after more than 100 were stolen from a plantation in Sussex.

The trees were stolen from Laughton, near Lewes, on the same day the Christmas tree in The Level, Brighton, was targeted by vandals.

The festive tree’s branches and lights were wrecked by people climbing over the wooden fencing and throwing things at the tree.

The antisocial behaviour has prompted Brighton and Hove City Council to install additional CCTV cameras focused on the tree, which is opposite the new skate park.

Both incidents took place on December 3.

A sign has now been put up on the fence surrounding the tree by Brighton and Hove City Council, saying: “Keep out. The lights and tree were damaged overnight.

“If you see anyone climbing over the fence or throwing anything onto this Christmas tree report it to the police.”

The chairman of the council’s environment committee, Councillor Pete West, said: “I’m deeply disappointed that in an act of mindless vandalism someone has damaged the Christmas tree at The Level.

“However thankfully most of the lights are still working and we have reported the damage to the police.

“I’m sure the local community will also be very disappointed.

“The Level is being used a great deal now by people of all ages, and everyone is very proud of it.

“Additional CCTV cameras in the area should be operational in the next few days. These will act as a deterrent in future.”

A Sussex Police statement said: “We have recently had a report of the theft of 100 Christmas trees from a premises in Laughton.

“Remember that by purchasing stolen trees you are helping fund criminal activity.

“We would like to hear from anyone that has any information as to where these items are being sold.”