Every November since 2001, teams of jolly men from across the world have gathered in Switzerland to take part in Clau Wau, the Santa Claus World Championships.

The competitors are challenged with 10 tasks including snow sculpturing, gingerbread house decorating, chimney climbing and sleigh racing.

But being crowned the best Santa in the world is not easy – the chimneys are impossibly high and stuffed with presents, pine trees block the downhill sleigh ride and, of course, presents have to be collected, packed and distributed in traditional style. The ‘Santa Claus World Champion’ wins a £3,500 prize.

Written by Julie Koo Seen Lin, office administrator

Main picture credit: Rex Features

Swiss welcome Santa Claus World Championships