Records broken at Christmas tree throwing competition in Catsfield

Now in its third year the 2023 Sussex Christmas Tree Throwing Championships at Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm attracted a record number of participants and spectators.

Held on November 19, the event saw around 30 competitors throwing six-foot fir trees in the yard outside the farm’s festive shop.

Previous winning distances were smashed in both the men’s and women’s events.

This year's winners (Image: Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm)

James Gardiner of Hailsham threw his tree a distance of 10.56 metres, 1.5 metres longer than the previous record.

The women’s champion, Becky Palmer of St Leonard’s, threw her tree 6.91 metres, 41 centimetres further than the 2022 winner.

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Each winner received a cash prize of £100.

James and Becky now the join the rollcall of champions, which currently includes 2021 winner David Elias from St. Leonards and 2022 winners Tadas Zakevicius from Seaford and Vicky Reeves from Battle.

The competition was created in 2021 (Image: Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm)

Clive Collins, owner of Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm, said: “It is wonderful to see this competition going from strength to strength. We started it in 2021 as a way to bring some excitement back to the festive season after the uncertainties of 2020 and the pandemic. I’m pleased to say it has surpassed all our expectations and now attracts athletes from all over the South East.

“I thought the throws by Vicky and Tadas in 2022 would be hard to beat, but James and Becky have shown us there is always scope for a new record.”

Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm has operated in East Sussex for over 30 years.

30 competitors took part (Image: Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm)

The farm is open every day until Christmas, 8am to 6pm on Saturday and Sunday and 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday. It sells a wide range of tree types, including Norway spruces, pine trees, Nordmanns, balsams, Frasers and concolor firs.

Trees can also be ordered online by visiting the farm’s website.

Visitors can also visit the Christmas shop which has a large selection of decorations.