Thousands see beach polo exhibition

As autumn nudges summer away and beaches lie bereft of holidaymakers, one popular coastal spot is alive with the thunder of hooves.

The annual Veuve Clicquot Polo on the Beach event takes place today at Watergate Bay, near Newquay, in front of thousands of spectators.

See a gallery of Polo on the beach at Watergate Bay

Speed and excitement will be the order of the day with some of the country's top professional polo players showing off their skills in the saddle.

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The exhibition match between two teams features some top international players – six of whom were professionals.

The goal is to take home the coveted Watergate Bay Trophy.

Over the years the spectacle has become a firm fixture on the equine calendar.

Around 30 horses take part in the event during the afternoon, playing four fast-paced chukkas – periods of play lasting six-and-a-half minutes.

The "battleground" is a small arena measuring 100 metres by 50 metres.

Visitors will be treated to a champagne bar and beach barbecue.

A spokesman for the event described it as "fast, furious and exciting".

He said: "Polo on the beach is more intimate than most other polo tournaments as spectators get to all see the action up close and can meet the players afterwards."