Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Club. Image: Google Satellite.

Police have been alerted to a man flying a drone over All England Lawn Tennis Club, Wimbledon  from a nearby golf course this morning.

The incident took place at around 8.37 am.

The drone’s been seized.

Officers from Merton police are investigating.

Inspector Roger Robinson of said:

It is an offence to fly a drone within 50 metres of a structure. Anyone intending to fly a drone should give prior consideration to the surrounding landscape and any structures or venues.

While it is not our intention to prevent people from enjoying the use of drones, it is important that regulations are adhered to. Police will take positive action against anyone committing an offence.

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The Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Championships opens Monday 29th June.

The Met Police say their planning team has been preparing for this event throughout the year and ‘will be drawing on its extensive experience to ensure that this annual event will be safe and secure for all those attending.’

The Championships are taking place a week later than usual to allow the players sufficient rest following the end of the French Open.

Extra officers will be on duty patrolling the local area.

The Met Police have a strategy of road closures and a highly mobile reserve that can respond to emerging incidents.

Officers will be working in uniform and in plain clothes during the event.

Chief Superintendent Stuart Macleod, the local Borough Commander said:

We have reflected on previous operational plans and amended these where necessary to ensure we deliver a safe and secure Championships for 2015.

This year’s event will be policed to a level proportionate with the current threat level. We have worked closely in partnership with the All England Club and other partner agencies to ensure the Championships can be enjoyed by all those attending.

Chief Superintendent Macleod said:

Like any major event with large crowds, they attract a small number of opportunist criminals who like to operate in busy environments. We remind everyone attending The Championships to take extra care of their property, especially handbags, wallets and mobile phones. Please keep your valuables and other items secure and with you at all times.

He added:

Normal policing service in the borough will continue throughout the duration of the tournament and I would like to reassure our local residents and communities that Safer Neighbourhood Teams will be providing a visible presence and will be able to address any concerns you may have.