Security Minister visits Olympic sailing site
Minister for Crime and Security James Brokenshire has visited Weymouth and Portland today to see how security plans are developing ahead of the Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Weymouth and Portland will host the sailing events during this summer’s Games and is the largest venue outside of London.
More than 700 athletes and 550 officials will stay at the Sailing Village during the Olympic Games, with approximately half using the accommodation during the Paralympic Games.
Safe and secure
The Minister met with Assistant Chief Constable Adrian Whiting, Chief Superintendent David Griffiths and LOCOG venue manager Rob Andrews where he was briefed on the security plans and shown around the main Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, where the sailing events will be based.
As part of the visit the Minister was taken out on the water where the police gave a demonstration of some of the techniques they will employ if unauthorised boats attempt to enter or encroach on the course.
Celebration of sport
He said: ‘The Olympic Torch arrives in the UK on Friday and here in Weymouth on 12 July. The Games are upon us and the focus of the Government and everyone involved is to ensure those celebrations are delivered safely and securely.
‘Today I have seen how hard Dorset Police are working, alongside local partners, to ensure that the sailing events will remembered for what we all hope will be the success of Team GB. We want this summer to be a celebration of sport.’