'Crime lower' at Henley Regatta

More than 500 rowing crews from 20 countries competed in the regatta

The number of reported crimes at the Henley Royal Regatta fell this year, police said.

The world's top-class rowers descended on the River Thames on the Oxfordshire-Berkshire border over the weekend.

Thames Valley Police said there were 33 reported crimes compared to 40 the year before.

The force added that 17 people were arrested, with a number of drink-related incidents.

Increased patrols

Supt Chris Sharp said: "There were a number of fights on Saturday evening around the town and on the south bank, which were generally as a result of people having a bit too much too drink."

Thames Valley Police increased the number of officers on patrol during the event to provide help and reassurance to the thousands of people who attended.

During the regatta, the age limit for people allowed to buy alcohol in some town centre pubs was increased to 21.

The Henley Pubwatch scheme said there had had been problems with young people drinking too much in previous years.