Police and the Bermuda Regiment are to join forces to oversee the Tall Ships 2000 event which will see thousands of sailors flock to the Island.

A Police tall ships task force of eight men will roam Hamilton and monitor bars to curb rowdiness between June 8 and 12 when up to 3,000 sailors will be on the Island.

Police reserves will also be pressed into service to make sure the high profile event runs smoothly.

Police revealed yesterday that they had sent intelligence officers to Cadiz and Scotland to pick up tips on how to handle tall ship events.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Jonathan Smith said: "This is the first significant tall ships' presence in our waters since 1984.

"This time we've chosen to address this with a multi-agency approach -- a three-pronged approach with the reserves and the Regiment.

"We have had many opportunities to train and complete exercises with the Regiment but the opportunity to deploy together comes infrequently.

"That is why we are enthusiastic to plan and deploy together for what is a showcase event for Bermuda.'' The influx will be concentrated in Hamilton -- Front Street will be sealed off.

Mr. Smith explained why such a major operation was being mounted.

He said: "We had a tall ships disaster in 1984 which resulted in loss of life. Some of these vessels are very old and there are a lot of crew members involved.

"It's an international event. It's more of a challenge than just cruise ship passengers. There are many activities planned for the crew and we have to police those as well.'' Task force to monitor Tall Ships Sgt. Gary Venning of the Marine Police said all his department's vessels will be out patrolling or on standby.

And he warned boaters to behave sensibly and not get too close to the tall ships.

He said: "It's a much bigger event than in 1984. There are 60 vessels with thousands of crew. We have to prepare for any eventuality.'' Colonel Patrick Outerbridge, of the Bermuda Regiment, said: "We'll be helping out in the boats and on the medical side.

"That's what the Regiment is there for -- to act in support of the Police on any occasion. It's a perfect opportunity for us to work alongside.

"These young chaps have been out at sea for three or four weeks and you might get some alcohol-related rowdiness.'' MILITARY MIL POLICE POL