Wealden Times | Events | Wealden Times' polo tournament

In a field near Burwash, the amber light of early Autumn seemed to create a mirage. Horses and riders were cantering across the grass and, in the far corner, an enormous exotic pavilion shimmered. Surely we had been transported to a polo pitch in Rajastan? As we drew closer it was clear that the rather smart set of spectators were very much Kent and Sussex types. We had gathered for the Wealden Times Farewell Polo Match at Brightling Polo Club amidst the loveliest of Sussex countryside.

This exclusive sporting afternoon was a way of saying a huge "Thank you" to all those who have advertised in, contributed to and supported the Weald's premier lifestyle magazine over the last year. Kent and Sussex businesses continue to innovate and thrive, making the best of the area's many talented inhabitants.

Brightling Polo Club was bought by Caroline and Mark Owen last October. Keen players, they travelled to Argentina to do some research, and returned with some rather unusual souvenirs in the form of a team of Argentinian polo ponies. The club team "La Fuerza Verde" includes enthusiastic amateurs as well as Lucho Aguirre, a rather dashing Argentinian pro. The ponies have been well-schooled and attracted gasps of admiration from the crowd. The agility of these four-legged athletes was quite astonishing, and with their sudden changes of direction in pursuit of the ball they exhibited a turning circle sharper than a London taxi. "We aim to offer a friendly, informal atmosphere," explained Caroline. "We have attracted a lot of local families and we offer both playing and social membership, so it's very much a social club too. The licensed clubhouse is often used for private parties, or we offer members special lunches. Lucho's father came over from Argentina and cooked an authentic asado (South American barbecue) and roasted a split lamb for everyone, which was amazing."

Guests chatted excitedly while they waited for the match to begin. Some had brought smart picnic hampers, but many were abandoned when the aroma of the hog roast proved too tempting. The queue was long, but no-one seemed to mind; it was a chance to exchange news and make new friends. Guests were not disappointed by the superb locally raised free-range pork, carved to order, and accompanied by wonderfully indulgent crackling, herb stuffing, crisp salad and warm bread. Carl and Penny Sheffield, of The Whole Hog, have catered for as many as 8,000 guests, so they were not at all daunted by this hungry crowd.

Drinks were served inside the Grand Pavilion, a fantastical, elegant structure kindly lent by LPM Bohemia. Inside, the domed ceiling resembled a giant Chinese parasol. Inspired by Mongolian yurts, Indian marquees and even the Brighton Pavilion, this extraordinary construction was made at the firm's workshop in Horsmonden, where they design and build all kinds of temporary structures for events and special occasions. The company was set up by twins John and Chaz Preston, who then joined forces with Graham Cresswell, a friend from their Kent schooldays. They wanted to offer something more than the familiar geometric marquee and now, they travel the world researching new designs and providing a bespoke service for all kinds of celebrations.

Crisp Pinot Grigio was supplied by Kevin Griffin at Maison du Vin, an independent wine merchant who sources some unusual tipple, both for the more extravagant, and the bargain hunter. Kevin established his business just six years ago, but since then he's introduced over 65 new wines from France, Spain and Italy alone. Concentrating on the artisan grower, Kevin is skilled at matching food and wine. "But the shop at Hawkhurst is just part of the business," he explains. "We have private and trade clients and offer a mail-order service as well organising ‘wine safaris' for the more adventurous." For cider enthusiasts, Biddenden Vineyard's finest Medium was available, made from locally grown apples, (mainly Cox and Bramley). It has been a fabulous year for apple growing and though we may have moaned about the summer rain, it created a wonderfully juicy crop, reflected in the naturally sweet juice that many guests also enjoyed.

After an exhilarating set of chukkas, the crowd took the opportunity to tread the divets, flattening with their feet any areas of grass that had been kicked up by the thundering ponies' hooves. It was a delightful dance across the field of play, with dogs joining in too. As the teams galloped back onto the field, trays of delightful cakes were circulated among the crowd, tempting them with wickedly rich chocolate brownies, treacly flapjacks, oaty shortbreads, light-as-air meringues and sticky date slices. Cuisine Studio of Colliers Green created these very moreish morsels. In business for over 21 years, the company, led by catering professionals Tony and Joanna Boyle, specialises in liveried catering and event management for all kinds of private and corporate occasions.

Beer drinkers were conquered by the quality of the 1066 Country Bitter from the White Brewing Company at Bexhill. Started by David and Lesley White in 1995, they brew traditional beers using Kent and Sussex hops which are available in local pubs and from their shop at Pebsham Farm. This award-winner was just one more example of the outstanding variety and quality of food and drink made in the region.

All too soon, the match was over, with the home team, La Fuerza Verde victorious. Julie Simpson, editor of the Wealden Times presented the trophies and each of the team received a Polo Ralph Lauren polo shirt from Hoopers in Tunbridge Wells. Everyone agreed it had been a splendid afternoon.

Our thanks to