Raise money for children’s hospice care when you buy a local Christmas tree

FOR many people, a family outing to choose the Christmas tree is an essential part of the seasonal fun. Did you know that when you visit Sussex Trees to buy your festive centrepiece, you can help raise vital funds for children’s hospice Chestnut Tree House?

Goddenwick Farm in Lindfield has a huge selection of trees, ranging from the traditional Norway spruce and popular Nordman fir to rarer varieties such as the Sussex fir. Also available are wreaths, garlands and other festive fares – even their own pine needle-infused gin! When visiting, you’re likely to meet some of the resident animals, including reindeer and pygmy goats, along with sheep, donkeys, peacocks, ducks, chickens, alpacas, dogs and cats.

Since 2015, farmer Tom Kidger and his family have been supporting Chestnut Tree House, both by supplying the hospice with trees for visiting families to enjoy and by raising funds in their shop and café. Last year alone raised more than £16,000 for the hospice, bringing their grand total to more than £23,600.

This year’s fundraising promises to be even bigger and better, with more chances to see Santa in his grotto, give the reindeers a cuddle, feed some carrots to the donkeys and savour some excellent food and mulled wine. Sussex Trees will be open every day from 25 November to 21 December, with the grotto open weekends up to 10-11 December, and the café open weekends up to 17-18 December.

Chestnut Tree House relies on the generosity of the local community at Christmastime and all year round. To find out more about the different ways you can support Chestnut Tree House this Christmas, visit www.chestnut.org.uk/christmas.