By HARRY CLARKE
MORE than 500 people – and one live camel – descended on Bassett Park at Roma on Friday night for the black tie ball traditionally held on the eve of the iconic Roma Picnic Races.
The weekend-long race meeting is a highlight on Roma’s social calendar, bringing locals out in droves and always attracting crowds from the metropolitan east.
The Friday night black tie ball this year had a Moroccan theme.
After being handed drinks on arrival, guests were greeted for selfies by a camel and handler dressed in traditional Arabian-style costume. The main course from caterers was lamb and couscous.
Will Nason from the event organising committee said ongoing support of loyal sponsors had kept the hugely popular event thriving.
“The beers and champagne was flowing and everyone was having a great time,” Nason said.
“Races in Roma have been going for well over a hundred years and the ball has been an integral part of it for a long time.
“It’s great to have everyone here on the Friday night so they can ease in on the Friday night and get back into it again at the races the next day.”
More than 3000 punters were expected back at Bassett Park on for the Roma Picnics race day.
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