I've never been more glad of turning an invitation down than when my husband's costume arrived for this year's work ball! And you can see the reason in full multicolour here!

[More:]

I went to his last work ball at Warwick Castle. Well, when one's just had one's second baby, it pays to make sure one's husband isn't working too closely with any beautiful, young women!But I decided not to go this year.

In the early days, when my husband and I first got together and he was on the bottom rung of the career ladder (he worked at a variety of different companies before his current firm), his work dos were fun, glittering occasions. We would enjoy as much free booze as possible and have a laugh with all of his colleagues.

The events themselves are no less spectacular now. But since his position is higher up the firm he's with now, the experience is not the same. We have to be on our best behaviour and small talk with the right people. It just isn't so much fun any more.

Learning a few weeks ago that the ball was to be on a 70s Carribbean theme, I knew I had made the right decision. Still, seeing my husband's costume - white platforms, pink shirt, purple flares and jacket, wig and pink sunglasses - I would say everyone's in for a laugh.

As my elder son said: "Daddy, you look like a girl!"

But personally, I almost wish I was going now!

Justin in 70s gear for work ball