Blanchett: Why was I snubbed by Pirelli?

OCCASION: Pirelli Calendar gala dinner at the Roundhouse, Camden, North London.

GUESTS: Actress Cate Blanchett, Colin Firth’s wife Livia, calendar photographer Annie Leibovitz and Geri Halliwell with husband Christian Horner (right).

AWKWARD MOMENT: Cate (above) did not hide her disappointment at being left out of next year’s calendar. ‘I’ve had the privilege of being photographed by Annie eight or nine times,’ she said, before telling the snapper directly: ‘You didn’t call me for this! You know my number . . . I’m sure you know who represents me. But I’m here tonight anyway.’

SOBERING MOMENT: Eco-warrior Livia revealed her motherly concerns. ‘I don’t have daughters, but even with three boys I’m aware of the world they’re coming into. I want them to know men and women are equal.’

DIVA ALERT: I Will Survive singer Gloria Gaynor asked for a two-hour long set after the dinner, but in the end was told she could only have 45 minutes.

MARITAL UNREST: Geri told me she’s failing to turn new husband Christian into a chef. ‘I’m having a good laugh with baking. I’ve tried to teach Christian, but he’s hopeless.’