LUXURY yachts are not an uncommon sight on Poole Quay – but polo ponies, mallet-wielding top players, fashion models and volleyball team members are a bit more unusual.

It can only be the Asahi British Beach Polo Championships photoshoot that was causing such a stir at Poole Quay Boat Haven yesterday.

Alongside an opulent 40-metre Sunseeker yacht gleaming in the sunshine, were the component parts of next month’s two-day Sandbanks extravaganza.

With 80 per cent of tickets sold for the two days of fun in the sun on July 11 and 12, the event goes from strength to strength in its seventh year.

Organiser Johnny Wheeler said: “The highlight this year is the highest standard of team that has ever been in a beach polo competition.”

Team Scotland is being captained by Chris Hyde, Europe’s best arena player, who has high hopes of taking the trophy in his second appearance at the event.

“We are the highest rated team so we will have to give away a few goals on handicap,” he said. “It depends on how good the surface is. If it’s good and smooth we will win it.”

However Welsh team captain Ricky Cooper said: “We have lost two finals. Hopefully it will be third time lucky for Wales.”

Irish and English teams will also be playing to win. A Seek the Sun fashion show sponsored by Sunseeker, have-a-go polo, pony v 4x4 race, and evening parties are among the attractions of the event.

  • For tickets go to sandpolo.com

    Four VIP table tickets to be won

    We’ve got four VIP table tickets at the Sandpolo for July 11 for one lucky reader to win. Not only that but you’ll be able to have a go at playing polo and meet the players!

To enter, answer this question: Which of the following might a jockey wear? a) Slippers b) Dressing Gown c) Helmet.

Send your entry, along with your contact details, via one of the following methods. POST: ‘Sandpolo Competition,’ Daily Echo, Promotions Department, Richmond Hill, Bournemouth, BH2 6HH. CALL: 0901 151 0241 and leave your answer and details when prompted.

TEXT: start your message ‘SANDPOLO’ leave a space, followed with your answer and contact details, to 80360.

  • All normal Daily Echo rules apply, available on request. Closing date for entries is midnight 27/06/14. Calls cost 51p from BT landlines, calls from mobiles and some other networks may cost more. Texts cost 50p plus your normal operator charge. For full terms and conditions visit newsquest.co.uk/ terms

    Service provided by Newsquest Media Group. If the competition is sponsored we reserve the right to send the details of your entry, including your contact details to the competition’s sponsor. Winners may be required to collect prizes in person, have their photograph taken and participate in local publicity. Entrants must be aged 18yrs & over. Tickets are for 11/7/14 only.