London 2012 Olympic defence missiles installed in Enfield (From Enfield Independent)

London 2012 Olympic defence missiles installed at William Girling reservoir in Enfield

1:01pm Monday 16th July 2012 in News By Bruce Thain

Surface-to-air missiles have been installed in Enfield as part of security measures for the Olympic Games.

The missile site at the William Girling Reservoir on the eastern border of the borough, along with six other sites in the capital, form part of a defensive ring around the Olympic stadium.

The Rapier and high velocity missile systems are aimed to protect the Olympic Park, in Stratford, from attack and serve as a deterrent to terrorists.

Ray Peck, whose home backs onto the missile site, said: I think having them there is really important. They’re protecting us and everyone who is visiting for the games.

Jessica Harris, who also lives next to the site, said: “I don’t mind them here to be honest. They’re here for our protection and to keep us safe.

“There have been people and soldiers there for a while now, but we haven’t had any problems with them.”

The military began installing the missile systems on Thursday at five other sites around the capital, including Leytonstone, Bow, Blackheath Common, Oxleas Wood and Epping Forest.

Military personnel were also seen today at the Lea Valley White Water Rafting Centre, in Waltham Cross, to help with security as members of the Italian kayaking team trained at the Olympic venue.