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overflowing with bright flowers, and a few lucky people even found themselves seated in a winged arm chair. The first of the many freebies to be found were the themed masks at each table setting. Polo players will be polo players and their boisterous attempts to uncover each other’s hidden identity, with its ensuing chaos worsened of course later on the dance floor. Quickly, however, the excuse ‘I forgot what colour dress you were wearing Darling’ wore rather thin.

‘Supper was served’ is an understatement. ‘A delicious and fully bespoke themed menu brought to the tables by a team of waiters and

first after the top prize, a Links of London silver polo charm. Links had generously donated the charm along with the goody bags which were then topped up with an assortment of Molton Brown perfumes and bath essences, brochures from the luxury Spa Wellness Clinic and marzipan mice adorned with the words “eat me”.

The party by this stage was in its fullest and most decadent swing. Back in the club house yet more playing cards were flying around in the casino, and on the dance floor Nico Talamoni was making inappropriate advances on an inflatable Flamingo. Every wine bottle in the

marquee had been tagged with a label that read ʻdrink meʻ and by this stage it was clear that those instructions had been followed to the letter.

The Ham Polo Club Ball had indeed retained its title as the best party in polo. Briefly though, before I finish, I would like to redirect your attention to the first paragraph where I mentioned strange and fantastical creatures. Jim Lange deserves special mention for his ongoing dedication to fancy dress. Witnesses on the night will agree that Jim had indeed arrived, if not just in time, then perfectly attired for tea.

The mad-hatters tea party

waitresses larger in number than those of the Queen of Hearts herself’ would be more fitting. Those who had passed unscathed through wonderland were treated to courses such as mock turtle soup containing tiny edible hearts, diamonds, clubs and spades. Not bad, I think you’ll agree.

As dinner finished the time for gifts, pressies and prizes began. The auction kicked off in traditional style with polo players from as far afield as America and Nigeria vying for Auctioneer Geoffrey Godbold’s attention as they bid for helicopter rides, holidays and matches with 10 goalers.

Actress Rula Lenska announced the winner of the Raffle, the star prize being a 7 night stay for six people in the Karma Kandara hotel in Bali, shortly after which, feathers flew around the lucky dip as young ladies went in head

Photography: XXXXXXXXXX

y: Gary Beerenbrock & Chris Grant

I would also like to mention that Nico and his Flamingo are now happily married and eagerly expecting the first of what I am sure will be many fledgelings.

The Midsummer Ball roars back to Richmond

Friday 23rd July. Be there or be square.

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