Wimbledon weapons check nets 50 people

More than 50 people were arrested for carrying offensive weapons at this year's Wimbledon tennis championships, Scotland Yard revealed today.

Police put the rise down to all Wimbledon visitors having their bags checked under tighter security measures, rather than an outbreak of tennis hooliganism.

Official figures released today revealed a total of 62 fans were arrested over the two weeks of this year's championships, 53 for possession of knives or CS spray.

However police hailed the success of the new procedures and described it as "a trouble-free fortnight".

On "People's Sunday" more than 22,000 visitors without tickets were searched and moved safely into the grounds by officers and employees of the All England Club.

Superintendent Simon Ovens, who oversaw security, said: "The officers worked hard to ensure a high standard of security around the club for the fortnight.

"Through careful planning and a close working relationship with the All England Club, we were able to ensure all visitors could safely enjoy an important event in the British sporting calendar."