International polo returned to Suffolk for the second consecutive year this weekend, with thousands turning out to enjoy the sun-drenched spectacle.

Up to 6,000 people flocked through the gates at Trinity Park for the event on Saturday, organised by Suffolk Agricultural Association (SAA) in partnership with Hopkins Homes, and lined the polo pitch to enjoy picnics and watch the action in front of them.

Peter Over, joint chairman of business development at SAA, said he was thrilled with the success of the occasion and with the turnout.

He added: “It’s something that follows on from the show and it attracts different people who are not usually involved in the show but come to the polo to get involved with us as an association.

“We are very lucky that the Hurlingham Polo Association allow us to have an international match because it’s very sought after and it just brings polo into Suffolk for everyone to see and enjoy.

“It was a quintessentially proper English day out and we were buoyed by the good weather.

“We hope everyone went home with a smile on their face.”

The five chukka match of the day featured teams from England and South America as well as a four chukka Young Players Challenge Cup encounter between Ipswich and Newmarket.

Henry Sharp, 14, from Great Oakley, was one of those taking part in the youth match for Ipswich who were victorious with a 5-1 scoreline.

He said: “I didn’t know how it was going to be at the beginning but as it got further into the match, I got used to having the crowd.

“I was in my element out there and scored three goals.”

James Hopkins, executive chairman of Hopkins Homes, said: “It was absolutely fantastic.

“It’s a wonderful asset and addition to Suffolk life and Hopkins Homes are really proud to be part of that.

“It’s just a great thing to bring people into Ipswich and the showground.”

David Woodd, chief executive of Hurlingham Polo Association, added: “The sun was shining, we had two very good teams and a great crowd.

“It’s been a very good day to see polo out of the M4 corridor and I hope to see it back in Suffolk again next year.”

Plans are already afoot to stage the event for a third year

The EADT and EADT Suffolk Magazine were media sponsors of the event.

Mr Over added: “Hopkins Homes are major sponsors and have been fantastic.

“They are in it for the long-term and we would very much like to hope we are as well.”