DISPOSING OF THE household’s Christmas tree is a mammoth task that is often left on the backburner.

A new Christmas Tree Throwing event due to take place next month may solve that particular problem and provide some fun along the way.

Already popular in Germany and Austria, tree throwing is a “novel way to turn Christmas tree recycling into a sport,” say the organisers.

All proceeds raised from the championships, which will be held on 7 January, 2012 will go towards funding a new Clare County Dog Shelter.

So, we were wondering what a “good throw” would look like? The current world record is held by Klaus Pubnaz who was able to hurl a tree 12 metres.

It helps if the tree being thrown is sleek and aerodynamic, rather than big and bulky, experts said.

An Irish record has yet to be set and the 1.5 metre tree will prove a challenge to beginners.

The inaugural Irish Christmas Tree Throwing Championship takes place on 7 January between 10am and 4.30pm in the carpark of Our Lady’s Hospital, Gort Road, Ennis, Co. Clare.

Any trees dropped off at the contest will be recovered by mulching them for use on the County Council’s gardening section.