Cambridge University students cooled off by jumping from Magdalene Bridge into the River Cam following the 160th anniversary Trinity May Ball. It is an informal tradition for students to do so as part of their post-ball antics, though it is said to be discouraged.
Students Brave the Waters After Night of Celebration
As temperatures began to climb this week before a heatwave, several were tempted into the water – some having stripped down to their underwear. The students had attended the University of Cambridge's Trinity May Ball and made their way home after a night of partying, still dressed to the nines in ball gowns and black tie.
Ticket Prices and Entertainment
Guests paid at least £225 for a single ticket for what was billed as “Cambridge’s best Ball” to celebrate the end of their exams. This included a “stunning fireworks display”, musical entertainment, and comedians. A firework display lit up the sky over the River Cam during the event.
History of the Trinity May Ball
The first Trinity May Ball was held in 1866, and the tradition quickly spread to other colleges. Despite now taking place in June, they are still called the May Balls, as that is when they were originally held. The event is described on its website as “one of the most sought after tickets to be had in May Week” and “an unrivalled showcase of revelry”.
The ball has been held every year since 1866, apart from 1910, when King Edward VII died, during the Second World War between 1939 and 1945, and in 2020 and 2021 because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
