Pub branches out with tree record

One of London’s best-known Irish pubs has set a new record for the largest number of Christmas trees and lights on the premises.

Staff at the Churchill Arms in Kensington — run for almost 30 years by manager Gerry O’Brien from Ogonnelloe, Co Clare — have erected 57 Christmas trees inside and outside the pub along with 11,500 lights.

This year’s record beats last year’s total of 50 trees and the pub garners more attention year-on-year as Gerry continues to add trees. This year he has added a reindeer called Dasher, as well as other decorations.

Gerry said: “My first year, 30 years ago, we had just a single tree (18ft) and each year I added an extra couple. Last year we had a total of 50 Christmas trees of various sizes and all with lights which also included the chimneys.

“This year, we have managed to put up 57 trees and over 11,500 lights. A couple of new additions have been included, such as our new, resident reindeer surrounded by several new half-moons.

“It is an amazing sight with everybody stopping to take photos, including the London Tour buses. It is also a wonderful boost to our business and does create a very special atmosphere. I’m already planning for next year.”

Two other members of Gerry’s staff are Irish — Limerick man James Keogh and Vicky Bell who is from Wexford.

The Churchill Arms lays genuine claim to being London’s most famous watering holes. Built in 1750, the pub was once frequented by Winston Churchill’s grandparents and it’s now the preferred haunt of many celebrities.

The pub is packed wall to wall with Churchill memorabilia while a massive selection of old chamber pots hang from the ceiling.

Gerry also proudly displays Clare and Munster jerseys as well as a hurley and a rugby ball.

The popular watering hole is also famed for the beautiful flowers and hanging baskets that tumble out onto the street, securing the pub the “London in Bloom” award two years in a row.