Records broken at Sussex Christmas tree flinging contest
See the latest news from Your World at https://www.sussexexpress.co.uk/your-world
Festive trees took flight at the sixth annual Sussex Christmas Tree Flinging Championships yesterday held at Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm near Battle in East Sussex.
Around 60 adults and 30 children from as far away as Belfast fought for trophies and prizes by throwing a Christmas tree as far as possible. The event also attracted a large crowd of spectators.
Adult contestants threw a six-foot Norway spruce. The men’s and women’s champions each won £150 and a tree-shaped trophy sponsored by local accountancy firm Holland Harper.
The children threw smaller trees, competing in two mixed categories: under-10s and under-16s.
The 2026 women’s winner was Becky Palmer, 27, from St Leonard’s who threw 7.88 metres, beating her previous record of 6.91 metres and breaking what is thought to be a world record for women. Men’s winner was James Gardiner, 37, of Hailsham who threw 10.45 metres. The current world record is 12 metres set by Klaus Pubnaz from Germany.
The Under 10s title was won by eight year-old Dylan from Hastings and the Under 16 winner was Eddie, age 10, from Little Common who threw 5.78 metres.
Clive Collins, owner of Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm, said: “The Tree Fling has become a much-loved part of our Christmas build-up. People take the competition seriously, but there’s also plenty of laughter and encouragement from the crowd.
“This was one of the best competitions yet with men’s and women’s records beaten. It was also nice for the children to have their own competition which was a lot of fun. All in all a great start to the festive season and a brilliant way to get the team and customers excited for our official opening this Friday when people can come and reserve a tree in the plantation.”