Give and take

GUESTS of Lady McAlpine at the Fawley Hill for the launch of this year’s Thames Traditional Boat Festival Launch were delighted to learn that her golden Labrador, Belle, had recently given birth to 11 puppies.

Addressing the room from on top of a table, Lady McAlpine told guests that all but two of them had found a home, appealing to the crowd to find new owners. She said: “If I keep them, my staff will walk out.”

Later in the evening, she was joined by the festival’s co-chair, Adam Toop, in appealing for sponsorship. Mr Toop said: “I think it's my job just to remind us why we stand here and embarrass ourselves slightly by asking for money.”

Lady McAlpine chipped in: “I don’t find it embarrassing, one of the joys of being old.”

Mr Toop replied: “Yeah, I am old, but still embarrassed.”