The huge security operation comes as London prepares to host the 2012 Olympic Games, which open in late July.

CNN: Eyes of world on spectacular Thames royal pageant

Should London win its bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games, it will hope that someone of Mrs Blankers-Koen's prodigious talent will set the track alight.

ECONOMIST: Obituary in brief

As the home to the Weymouth and Portland British National Sailing Academy it was the obvious choice to host all sailing events during the London 2012 Olympic Games.

CNN: Weymouth: Olympic sailing on Jurassic Coast

And in 2012 it is London that will host the Olympic Games.

BBC: NEWS | UK | UK Politics | In full: Tony Blair's speech