Security test at Weymouth and Portland Olympics sailing site

More than 1,000 sailors will be competing in Weymouth during the regatta

A major security operation has been planned to take place in Weymouth and Portland this week to test emergency services ahead of the 2012 Olympics.

The exercise will take place as some of the world's top sailors competing in the Sail for Gold regatta on Tuesday.

Weymouth and Portland will host the sailing events for next year's games at the Osprey Quay sailing academy.

Local emergency services will be joined by the Royal Navy for the exercise.

The test operation will see HMS Bulwark sited in Weymouth Bay, which will act as the maritime control platform.

Other smaller vessels, the Royal Marines, helicopters and divers will also take part.

'Olympic spirit'

More than 1,000 sailors from 62 nations, including a number of world and Olympic champions, will be competing in Weymouth during the regatta, which runs from Monday until Saturday.

A Dorset Police spokesman said: "Dorset Police is committed to a safe, secure and resilient Games, but first and foremost, will ensure they remain a fantastic celebration of sport, upholding the Olympic spirit.

"We continue to work closely with the organising committee and our partners, providing a police-led security operation for the competitors, spectators, visitors to Dorset and our wider local communities."