Masquerade Ball
The opulent surroundings of the 18^th Century Marlborough House formed the perfect backdrop to a lavish Masquerade Ball, organised by the Young Diplomats of London. It’s no secret that diplomats wear masks most of the time, but with a bit of fun and fancy dress those diplomatic masks took no time to slip! And with the help of a Big Band and a live DJ, the moves pulled on the dance floor would give contestants in Strictly Come Dancing a run for their money. There was no disguising the real purpose of the event, however – to raise money for the Commonwealth Countries League which sponsors the education of bright young girls from poor families in the Commonwealth. During the prize draw, Ladi Dariya, one of the charity’s great successes, told her inspirational story – reminding the YDL guests why they were there.

PHOTOS: PIERRE DE VILLIERS