THIS year's British Beach Polo Championships at Sandbanks will be the largest in the event's 10-year history, organisers say.

Preparations are underway for the tenth anniversary championships, which have become a firm favourite on Poole's summer calendar.

Model and television personality Jodie Kidd, herself an accomplished polo player, said: "You simply cannot beat the polo at Sandbanks, it gathers some of the world's top polo players together on a wonderful blue flag beach in July for some exceptional polo, a great party atmosphere and a fashionable crowd dancing to the top DJs on the beach."

Thousands of people are expected to flock to Sandbanks for the weekend event, which includes a four team main competition, juniors matches, international beach volleyball and a 4x4 vs pony charity race.

Beach polo player Jamie Morrison, set to defend his team title this year, said: "Sandbanks Beach Polo is a phenomenal event. My players thoroughly enjoy the level of competition, the size and enthusiasm of the crowd and spending a few days in a magical part of Dorset overlooking Poole Harbour and Old Harry Rocks."

However, Welsh team polo player Ricky Cooper will be hoping it doesn't all go Jamie's way in 2017. "This will be my seventh year competing at Sandbanks," he said. "This is formula one polo - the 10th anniversary is going to be very special."

A range of bars and outlets will open all weekend in the championships' retail village. There will also be live music and DJs.

Championship director Johnny Wheeler said: "For those who have never witnessed arena polo, it is likened to ice hockey on horseback - the action is fast and furious, verging on the gladiatorial.

"The new layout trialled last year was well received. We are rising to the challenge of making our tenth anniversary bigger and better, alongside our new sponsor Link Homes whom we are extremely grateful for their full support."

The British Beach Polo Championships at Sandbanks take place on July 7/8.

Visit sandpolo.com for further information.