Thousands attend Royal Regatta

Organisers expect about 30,000 people to attend the opening day

Thousands of rowing fans are due to attend the last day of this year's Henley Royal Regatta.

The rowing event has been taking place over a stretch of the River Thames on the Oxfordshire/Berkshire border.

The event, which was first held in 1839, has been held annually ever since, except during the world wars.

Organisers said 443 crews from 15 nations have been taking part in the five-day event, which began on Wednesday.

Mike Sweeney, chairman of the committee of management, said: "I am very pleased that we have been able to attract such a high quality entry for this year's regatta as all countries, including Great Britain, are rebuilding for the new Olympic cycle."