FATHER Christmas got some practice in for putting presents down chimneys – by putting balls down holes.

More than 65 golfers dressed as the festive gift-giver teed off in wintry conditions at Lexden Wood Golf Club on Friday morning.

The annual event raised almost £1,600 for the breast cancer unit at Essex County Hospital.

Organiser Pip Chappel said: “It’s been an excellent day and everyone’s really enjoyed themselves.”

This year is the tenth time the event has taken place.

“When it started there were just eight of us, and it’s grown from there,” said Mr Chappel, who is a painter and decorator.

“We’re all self-employed people so we don’t really have an office party, so it’s nice to all be able to get together at Christmas and raise a bit of money for such a worthwhile cause too.”

Mr Chappel thanked local firms South East Painting, Kent and Blaxill, Gordon and Rudling, Dave Rose, Budget Guns and Tackle and JCH Painting.

“Every year they’ve donated raffle prizes for us, and I just want to thank them publicly for their support,” he said.