Boat Race security stepped up

Last year’s race had to be halted when anti-elitism demonstrator Trenton Oldfield swam into the path of the two crews and narrowly avoided being struck by an Oxford oar.

Boat Race executive director David Searle promised improved security along over eight miles of Thames riverbank and warned against anyone taking to the water. “We are taking additional measures this year and have reviewed all of our actions last year in detail,” he said.

“The Boat Race course is four and a quarter miles long so we have eight and a half miles of riverbank to manage and monitor.

“There will be an increased presence both on and off the water, including support from the Royal Marines but, as with any security plan, I cannot disclose the exact details.

“What I would say to anybody thinking of disrupting the race is that it’s unbelievably dangerous. You risk injuring yourself, the crews and the other people following the race.”