THE Chester Racecourse Polo Club is firmly established on the British Polo circuit and is one of the premier social events in the North West.

Polo in Chester is played on the historic Roodee, the perfect place to watch one of the world’s most exciting sports.

The history of Polo dates back to 6th century BC in Persia and is now played in 80 countries worldwide and uniquely, is played somewhere in the world all year round.

There are four players on each team and a match consists of chukkas, periods of seven and half minutes long.

The Coutts International Polo Tournament will take place at Chester Racecourse on May 29-30. Two semi final matches will be played at 2.30 and 4pm on Friday with the winning teams contesting the Coutts International Trophy and £10,000 prize money on Saturday at 4pm.

For the polo set, this is a chance to watch some of the UK’s best names in the sport as a host of national and international players compete in the two day event.

Richard Thomas, chief executive at Chester Race Company, said: ‘This first class polo tournament has become a key event in the Cheshire Equestrian calendar, it’s an exciting, physical sport which appeals to fans and new comers alike.

“Polo is a great spectator sport and general admission is just £5, this year we will be providing additional entertainment across the two days as we really want families to come on down and experience the polo first hand.”

Rob March, marketing manager for Chester Race Company, added: ‘The Coutts International Polo weekend is a very glamorous event and the perfect excuse for people to dress up and enjoy a day watching one of the most exciting sports in the world.

“Don’t be surprised to see a few famous faces down at the Roodee as we are expecting quite a few local celebs to pay us a visit.”

To add to the glitz and glamour of the event Boodles will be adding some of their special sparkle over the two days also John Galliano will be using the event to launch a brand new fragrance and La Prairie skincare will be handing out free product samples.

The West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service band will be providing musical entertainment for the two days and Felix Wheeler will be returning to commentate on all the action over the two days.

For those wishing to indulge in the glitz and glamour of an afternoon spent at the Polo gates will open at 12pm on both days.

Tickets are priced at £5 with no charge for Children 15 years and under, they can be pre-booked by calling the box office on 01244 304 610.

On the Friday corporate clients will be able to book a five star, three course lunch for £75 pp + VAT .

On Saturday there will be a barbecue lunch for £35 pp + VAT held at 1pm. There will be limited availability for these elements so please book early on 01244 304 631.