The time is early June, the English roses are in full bloom, and with a trailer featuring the Tower of London, Shakespeare and Sherlock Holmes, and an authentic showing of The Merchant of Venice, the much expected ACEM British Culture Month 2016 is officially upon us.

The event is title sponsored by Anxin Trust, a Shanghai-based company engaged mainly in the financial trust business.

As an important part of British culture, football features prominently on the Month’s event calendar. The thrilling game on June 16, which saw England taking on Wales in Euro 2016, proved a big hit among students. Apart from live streaming of the game, the night was further complimented by gourmet food, fizzy drinks and exciting games of table football and darts throwing.

Inspired by Harry Potter, another UK cultural produce that has charmed the world, the ‘Race of the Wizards’ which took place on June 19 saw students of the four houses - Gryffindor, Slytherin, Ravenclaw and Hufflepuff - running in their robes, overcoming one obstacle after another in the cut-throat race to find holy items. The competition finished with a nametag ripping battle that is bound to become one of the greatest battles of all time and remembered by all participants.

After intense running and competition, students took a breather and recouped their energy during a special afternoon tea ceremony. In true British style, the occasion was filled with tea, sandwiches, scones and cakes. But it also added a funny twist with a hilarious parody of classic ballet Four Little Swans, attentive waitresses dressed in cute Japanese maid costumes, splendid music performances and talks on food and culture.

Students also gained a taste of successful British businesses through company visits to the over 150-year old HSBC and the modern laboratory of pharmaceutical giant GlaxoSmithKline, and enjoyed exclusive VIP services during a UK movie viewing session.

The grand finale of the Culture Month will be a spectacular ball - Downton Abbey style, and the unveiling of the lucky winner of UK-China air tickets worth 40,000 rmb ($ 5,912) on July 2.