I was lucky enough to attend the 21st Russian Summer Ball in London, where I played Toastmaster for the night. It was a truly fabulous event, with Princess Olga Andreevna of Russia attending as guest of honour. We were served the most delicious three course meal before enjoying an evening of Russian entertainment. Maria Sascha Khan treated us to a ballet performance before gymnasts from the London Sport Academy wowed us with a spectacular show.

The after dinner reception preceded Bibs Ekkel and his balalaika orchestra, who performed Russian music for us to dance the night away to. It was the most magnificent night, all kicked-off in style with ‘Ivan the Terrible Vodka reception’ – if only more events could start like that!