When I was younger and worked in the private sector for a bit, I went to a couple of great bashes, where loads of free booze was laid on, and it was a good laugh (this was up in Liverpool). Since 2002 I've worked in London in the public sector, and it's always team meals. I hate them and haven't been to one in years. Last Friday 5 of us that know each other and get on well, but who all work in different teams got together and had a few beers after work. Give me that over a team dinner anytime!