Double take

Revellers at a bash held by ten-partner London firm Memery Crystal last week were impressed that the firm's star-studded clients apparently included Elton John, Jack Nicholson and Richard Branson.

At least one of the Gazette's honed newshounds failed to notice they were lookalikes until the following day, when the likelihood of Jack Nicholson jetting in especially for the party, and of being pictured with Peter Crystal, Memery Crystal partner, was pointed out.

However, among the galaxy of, erm, stars at least one was genuine - coffee-promoting actor Gareth Hunt (right).

If that was not a heady enough brew, some of the firm's partners showed off their skills in telling jokes, which cannot be printed in a respectable paper.

But Terry King eclipsed all his colleagues with his card trick - involving business cards.

Mr King's invitation to 'pick a card, any card' was spookily followed by him picking out an identical card from the same bunch.

Next year's party could be a real blast - literally.

The with-it partners at Memery Crystal are said to be thinking of hiring Mr Methane - a performer who uses, shall we say, naturally-produced gas to provide entertainment - to put bums on seats.