Hat's the idea

If you can't beat them, join them. Michael McBride, general manager of the Herbert Park Hotel, which is near the showgrounds, held a champagne reception on Friday for the Aga Khan Day that was in it. "The Horse Show is the social event of the season so we wanted to throw a big party to celebrate," explained David Morse, the hotel's marketing manager.

Eschewing a hat in favour of a tiara was Fiona Quigley. The tiara were designed by Denise Downey, who was wearing one herself. The eye-catching creations - which Denise supplies to Brown Thomas and The Hat Studio - were made of gold and silver wire, semi-precious stones and feathers. Meditating on the move into the perfume business by the Spice Girls was Louis Walsh, the manager of Boyzone. Can we expect a diversion into celebrity aftershave by the band? Chef Conrad Gallagher was taking a break from his many kitchens. Taking a break of a different nature from his usual activities was snooker champion, Ken Doherty.

Also enjoying the party were actress Pauline Collins; actor and producer of Animal Farm, currently shooting in Ireland, Greg Smith; entrepreneur Robbie Fox; Cindy Cafolla and fashion designer Jen Kelly.