From the desk of Penelope Alice, Britain’s most fabulous PA: Queen on the Green at the QEII Conference Centre

All of this lovely weather has been perfect for summer parties and there’s one in particular I’m glad I went to. The Queen Elizabeth II Conference Centre is closing down for six weeks for refurbishment and it threw one last soirée on the green space in front of the impressive building.

I was greeted by that staple of summer dos, the Pimm’s cocktail, as well as delicious and creative canapés made by Leith’s Catering. My favourite of the scrumptious bites was a prawn cocktail pinched between the claws of a crab leg – what a great way to use parts that would otherwise be wasted. There was also beef, chicken and a yummy vegetarian option.

Our entertainment for the evening came in the form of a guitar player serenading us with soft music. Shortly after I arrived, I was roped into joining a group of people at a table, only to find out I had entered myself into a cocktail-making contest. Despite the fact that I thought we were putting together a mojito because I got confused by the ingredients, (it was actually a special summer drink) yours truly won the prize of a bottle of champers. I didn’t brag – much.

I skipped the opportunity to play croquet and boules for the chance to have a showaround of the venue so I could get a final look at it before it’s transformed. I’ve seen the plans for the updates and I think the place will look amazing when it reopens in September. Check it out for yourself at qeiicc.co.uk.

This blog originally appeared on the PA Life Club site. To read more of Penelope Alice’s blog entries and get access to a range of fantastic benefits, including discounts and special deals at dozens of selected retailers and venues, as well as exclusive monthly competitions, networking events and 50% off PA Life’s new training courses, click here: palife.co.uk/pa-life-club