Royal Marines joined police on the Thames in London last week for a week-long security exercise in preparation for the 2012 Olympics. They joined the Metropolitan Police’s Marine Policing Unit for a series of training exercises which involved more than a dozen craft on the water, plus helicopters.

Upwards of 140 commandos and police personnel were involved in the five-day exercise which was designed to ensure that civilians and the military can work hand-in-hand during the large-scale operation this July and August.

The exercise was designed to ensure the smooth running of the security mission as it was important that all involved understood the Thames and also each other’s tactics.

The Thames runs through the very heart of the capital and is sure to be a popular place for people who want to be a part of the Olympic Games experience. Upwards of 13,500 service personnel will be involved in the overall Olympics security mission. As well as the Royal Marines’ presence on the Thames, Britain's biggest warship, HMS Ocean, will be moored on the river at Greenwich as a base for personnel and for helicopters, including the Fleet Air Arm's Lynx.

DIARY DATES

Today, the HMS Ganges Association meets at 19.30hrs at Feversham Street Sea Cadets HQ.

Wednesday, the Russian Convoy Club meets at 11.30hrs at Eastborough Working Men’s Club, Dewsbury; the Royal British Legion, Low Moor and Wyke Branch, meets at 20.00hrs at The Harold Club, Wyke.

Thursday, the Submariners Association meets at 20.00hrs at Tong Street Conservative Club.

Monday, The Wrens Association meets at 13.30hrs at The CVS building, Sunbridge Road, Bradford; the Royal British Legion, Thornton Branch, meets at 19.45hrs at Thornton Conservative Club.