Sussex Christmas Tree Fling champions crowned at Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm

Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm’s ever-popular Festive Tree Fling returned for the fifth time at the weekend with impressive throws, community spirit and plenty of festive cheer.

The women’s title was claimed by Louise Thompson, 36, of St Leonards, East Sussex, who launched her Christmas tree an impressive 5.65 metres. The men’s competition was fiercely contested with James Gardiner, 36, of Hailsham, East Sussex, reclaiming his title after previously winning in 2023. James secured victory with a mighty throw of 9.1 metres — just enough to take the win by 10 centimetres from the 2021 winner and local strongman David Elias.

Both winners received £150 in cash, a £50 Christmas tree voucher and a gift box of Battle Brewery beer, kindly donated by Battle Brewery who co-sponsored this year’s event.

James said: “I was so pleased with the win. After lifting the first tree I did think, ‘Oh for Pete’s sake’ — it was a lot heavier than last year! I didn’t think I’d done as well as I could, as last year I threw10.50 metres. That said, I just about managed the win by 10cm!

“My family and I will most definitely be returning next year, not only to try and defend the title but because it’s now become a family tradition to come to the farm and pick our tree.”

Louise said: “It was such a surprise to win! I couldn’t believe it. I hope to come back next year. It’s a fun afternoon out. And if I defend the title - even better!

The annual competition, which draws crowds from across the county, challenges participants to throw a real Christmas tree as far as possible — combining fun and friendly rivalry while giving visitors an early taste of the festive season at the family-run farm.

Owner Clive Collins added: “It was another fantastic day here at the farm — great fun, lots of laughter and some truly impressive throws. The competition seems to get better every year. It’s such a joy to see families and friends coming together to enjoy themselves and start the festive season in the right spirit. Congratulations to both our winners and thank you to everyone who came along and supported the event.

“We’d also like to thank Battle Brewery for their generous support — it’s brilliant to have another local business involved in what has become such a popular community tradition.”

The Catsfield Christmas Tree Fling has become a much-loved local tradition, marking the unofficial start of Christmas celebrations in Sussex.

For more information about Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm and upcoming festive events visit www.catsfieldchristmastreefarm.com  The farm and festive shop open for the season at 9am on Friday 14^th November.