The Great and the Good take tea

(and copious amounts of Pimms!).

The occasion is the Vice-Chancellor's Garden Party, a component of the Encaenia celebrations of this day at which honorary degrees are conferred. I passed by one of the "new Doctors" near the Pimms tent, and saw from his name badge that he was Dr Murray Perahia (Hon. D. Mus.).

Certainly these participants can reasonably be regarded as "The Great", but "The Good" can surely only be assessed by a good person, so I am not in a position myself to judge.

There were some splendid bright gowns to be seen, and sometimes the wearers were seen in intense discussion. Here is another colourful group in a private enclave.

The flower beds were also splendid: we heard that the gardeners had gone to particular trouble to ensure a fine display at the party. Even the annuals were in swathes of organised colour. Here are some wonderful onion flowers, such as we have seen in our own garden at home. But what a cluster of the plants we see here.

Lest you think that there is too much colour, and not enough tea, just look at the throng drinking tea (or Pimms) and scoffing delightful sandwiches, cakes, and strawberries & cream.

But the colour (and clashes of colour) were unavoidable! What about this pair? You might want to have a look at the blue habit and its wearer more closely.

And still the band played on .....