Sussex Christmas tree flingers hope to break record at Catsfield

People keen for an early festive challenge are being invited to try to break the world record for Christmas tree throwing in East Sussex.

Competitors will try their luck at throwing a Christmas tree the furthest distance at Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm, near Battle, at 14:00 GMT on Sunday.

The current world record is 12m (39.4ft), but with one man throwing a tree a distance of 10.56m (34.6ft) last year, Christmas tree farmer Clive Collins is hoping that history could be made at this year's event.

"We advise a javelin-throwing approach as that seems to get the best distance," he said.

"It would be great to get even closer to the world record this year – or even beat it.

"Christmas tree throwing is now firmly in our annual calendar of events. We had a lot of festive fun last year and it became quite competitive with a large crowd of family and friends watching the contest."

Competitors must throw a 6ft (1.8m) Norway spruce as far as possible, with the winner claiming a £150 prize.

Entrants will have three attempts and must be aged 18 or over.

"Practice makes perfect and you could always try using a brush or mop to sharpen your technique," said Mr Collins.

"Having said that, if you just want to turn up and just have a throw you are more than welcome."

Catsfield Christmas Tree Farm opened for the festive season on Friday.