THE launch event for this year's British Beach Polo Championships is set for Sandbanks Beach this week.

Bumper crowds are expected to flock to the Daily Echo-backed event, later this summer, to see some top international players in the saddle.

Four competitive polo teams will battle out for the 'British Beach Polo Champion 2018' title this year.

Other attractions planned include five-a-side beach rugby and 'The Ibiza Fashion Festival'.

The press launch is scheduled for Wednesday (June 20), where some of the polo ponies and players, rugby players, organisers and soldiers from the Household Cavalry wil be on hand.

Event organiser Johnny Wheeler said: "We are blessed to be able to stage our event on the magnificent Sandbanks beach and enjoy such close co-operation with the local council. "Year after year we attract the finest polo players, wonderful sponsors and partners and a ‘full house’ of supporters."

Meanwhile, an event spokesman explained: "With up to 10,000 people in attendance, it is the biggest beach polo event in the world. Now in its 11th year a veritable feast of fast action, gladiatorial horse polo, beach rugby, fashion and fun will be had on the platinum beaches of the south coast."

The two-day event also includes top DJ's on the Friday night, and a Saturday closing party.

Borough of Poole leisure spokesman Cllr John Challinor said: "We are delighted to see the return of the British Beach Polo Championships to one of our most famous Blue Flag beaches.

"Combined, Poole and Bournemouth offers ten miles of golden sand. It is a haven for a variety of watersports, home to Europe’s largest natural harbour and with a host of beach events and festivals throughout the year, we are proud to welcome competitors and spectators back to the ‘coast with the most’."

The event is scheduled for Sandbanks Beach on July 13-14.