A veritable feast of fast action, gladiatorial horse polo, beach rugby, fashion and fun is to be had on the platinum beaches of Sandbanks, Poole as the biggest beach polo event in the world returns to Dorset.

Now in its 11th year, the British Beach Polo Championships takes place on July 13 and 14, with up to 10,000 people in attendance.

The event will see four competitive polo teams play thrilling polo whilst demonstrating spectacular horsemanship on the sand as they compete for the title of British Beach Polo Champion 2018. Spectators are able to watch the professionals up close and personal as they manoeuvre their athletic polo ponies with agility and power.

2018 brings with it more fearless action into the arena in the form of SandScrum, an exciting clash of exhibition five- a- side beach rugby in association with Bournemouth Rugby Club.

"The Club has seen massive growth over the past year, connecting and partnering with the very best of people from individuals to international corporations, all who are headquartered in our conurbation," says chief executive James Croker.

"We are thrilled to be asked to represent Rugby in such a prestigious event as The British Beach Polo Championship."

Within striking distance of London the increasingly popular beach event attracts a host of top polo players, VIP guests and fashionistas. Celebrations this year include a runway of top models gathering to host The Ibiza Fashion Festival, a head- turning fashion show and beach style guide to kick off each night's party.

Friday (July 13) welcomes top club DJs to get the revelry started, whilst Saturday (July 14) night’s closing party sees a sophisticated party crowd dance the night away against the backdrop of the beautiful Jurassic coast.

“We’re delighted to see the return of the British Beach Polo Championships to one of our most famous Blue Flag beaches," says Cllr John Challinor, Portfolio Holder for Strategic Commercialisation & Estates, Communications, Leisure and Public Health at Borough of Poole.

"Combined, Poole and Bournemouth offer 10 miles of golden sand. It’s 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’re proud to welcome competitors and spectators back to the ‘coast with the most’.”

Event director Johnny Wheeler adds: "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."

sandpolo.com