CHUKKERS away!

It’s time for The Asahi British Beach Polo Championships to return to Sandbanks.

Thousands are expected to flock to the beach on July 11 and 12 to see the ponies put through their paces, and soak up the glamorous atmosphere.

The event, now in its seventh year, will see some star polo players competing in teams representing England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales. And as always there is a host of other top drawer entertainment including the Oakley International Beach Volleyball and the Sunseeker ‘Seek the Sun’ fashion show.

As ever expect to see the ‘Have a go polo’ in the area, and the thrilling charity Audi vs Polo Pony race, which is raising money for the good cause, Variety – the Children’s Charity.

That’s not forgetting the sandpolo hospitality dining and retail, and the nightly beach parties which have always been a popular feature of the event.

The spectacular spectator sport, played on the Blue Flag beach, brings the best out of players and guests in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd, witnessing the unusual scene of playing yards from the sea.

Organiser Johnny Wheeler said the reason the championships kept returning to Poole was obvious.

“A co-operative council and a large, stunning, easily-accessible beach are the vital ingredients for us as event organisers,” he said.

“Some good weather, the best polo players and an enthusiastic crowd is pretty important too.”

Jack Kidd, supported by his sister, Jodie, will be taking to the sands of Sandbanks for the arena polo.

He said: “I have been lucky enough to play polo all around the world, but Sandbanks is still one of my favourite weekends of the year.

“The polo is insanely competitive, the audience is great, and the beach parties are simply the best.”