The secretary of the British Tree Growers’ Association says he is “thrilled” with the standard of entries for a prestigious national competition.

Harry Brightwell, who is based at Fynn Valley Farm, Tuddenham St Martin near Ipswich, was in Oxfordshire on Thursday as Christmas tree growers from around the UK battled it out for the chance to present the tree which will take pride of place at the official residence of the Prime Minister this festive season.

More than 100 growers, aged from 18 to 80, took part in the contest, organised by the association.

Each farmer, who would have spent around 10 years nurturing the tree to full ‘competition’ height, was able to enter categories including Best Nordman, Best Other Fir, Best Pine, Best Norway Spruce, Best Other Spruce, Best Container Grown, and Best Festive Wreath.

Colin Griffith of Hereford was named winner of the Champion Tree category in the all-important national competition, and the Champion Wreath category went to Brian Taylor, also of Hereford.

Harry said: “We were thrilled with the standard of entries this year, and with the huge effort put in by such a large number of growers.

“The competition is taken very seriously by all members and the winners deserve huge applause for their achievement.”

He added: “We view the contest as a chance to recognise what incredible year-round work goes into being a Christmas tree farmer. Now we simply encourage all homeowners to consider a British grown tree for their seasonal celebrations this year.”