<p> INCLUDEPICTURE "http://www.hickstead.tv/media/logo.gif" \* MERGEFORMATINET</p><p>Start the showing season in style at the Hickstead Showtime Ball </p><p>Hickstead is proud to announce a very special date for your diaries – 18th April 2015, the night of the first ever Showtime Ball. </p><p>The glittering black tie event will provide the perfect way to kick start the show season – and it’s a great opportunity for societies, producers, owners, riders and other showing fans to catch up with each other after the long winter break. </p><p>Not only that, but all proceeds from the ball will be going directly towards improving the showing facilities at Hickstead. Plans are afoot to continue the all-weather gallop track in Jacksons Fencing Ring 5, making it a complete circuit around the edge of the arena. The team at Hickstead also want to make a new area for spectators at the Dick Saunders pavilion, with its own champagne bar and paved area. </p><p>“We are really keen to get the whole showing world together to celebrate the start of a new season, as well as raise funds to improve their Hickstead experience. The Bunns are famed for putting on a good party, and this will be no exception!” said Hickstead Director Lizzie Bunn. </p><p>The ball will be held in the Beethoven Suite, overlooking the famous International Arena – so come along and party the night away in true Hickstead style! Tickets are £65 each, which includes a three-course dinner and a drinks reception. The evening will include live music and plenty of dancing, plus there will be a charity auction with a host of fabulous opportunities on offer. </p><p>For tickets and more information, visit www.hickstead.co.uk.</p><p>ENDS</p><p>The essentials</p><p>Follow the All England Jumping Course Twitter and Facebook pages Visit the website www.hickstead.co.uk The Equestrian.com Hickstead Derby Meeting 25th - 28th June 2015 The Longines Royal International Horse Show 28th July – 2nd August 2015 The Hurst College National Schools & Pony Club Championships, 6 August 2015 The All England Jumping Championships 3rd - 6th September 2015 INCLUDEPICTURE "http://www.hickstead.tv/media/logo.gif" \* MERGEFORMATINET</p>