Streakers hit Charles polo match

Three male streakers invaded the pitch being watched by the Prince of Wales during an annual society polo event.

The naked trio emerged from the grandstand during a match between England and Australia at the Cartier International event in Windsor.

Two returned to the stand but the third was cheered as he fled stewards and hurdled two metal barriers to escape.

Prince Charles, who was overseeing the event in place of the Queen, watched the spectacle from the royal box.

The Cartier International, held at the Guards Polo Club within the grounds of Windsor Great Park, is one of the most glamorous dates in the social calendar.

Some 25,000 people attended the event, which took place on the hottest day of the year so far.

The intervention of the streakers, who stripped off during the final chukka, temporarily halted play.

"It brings a bit of humour in and the crowd seem to enjoy it"
Luke Tomlinson
England polo captain

However, England went on to win 10-9 and lift the trophy.

England team captain Luke Tomlinson later said it was not the first time he had played in a match interrupted by naked intruders.

"You are so focused on the game you hardly notice. It brings a bit of humour in and the crowd seem to enjoy it," he said.

Meanwhile, a spokeswoman for the club said: "I think it is the hot weather and the Pimms to blame. These things happen."

The Queen, who usually attends the event, was in Scotland.

Princes Harry and William, who have previously played at the event for their father's polo team, were other notable absentees, as they are both away serving with the armed forces.

Charles was joined in the royal box by a number of celebrities, including Bond girl Rosamund Pike and Harry Potter actress Emma Watson.