A women's beach volleyball tournament being used as a test event for next year's London Olympics finished early to allow spectators and staff to leave before dark.

The tournament, being held at Horse Guards Parade, began earlier than scheduled.

The organisers used two courts instead of one, in order to get the day's 12 matches all completed by 7:15pm.

The decision to finish early was made in light of the three days of rioting and looting across some parts of the capital.

After consulting the police, FIVB Beach Volleyball Director Angelo Squeo took the decision, saying he "will do whatever to not even risk putting in danger anybody here."

It is one of several test events in London this week, and continues until Sunday.

LOCOG, the organisers of The 2012 Olympics, released this statement.

"A lot of detailed work has taken place regarding security plans for the games and we will continue to review them together with the Met Police and the Home Office over the coming year."

The potential for public disorder has also been taken into account.

"Obviously, in light of the appalling events in London over recent days, we will review our planning to ensure that any lessons are identified," said Assistant Commissioner Chris Allison, the national Olympic security coordinator.

"But first, we must fully establish the circumstances of what has happened and at this time it is too early to say whether our planning will significantly change," he added.

"What is absolutely clear is that we are committed to the games being delivered in safety and security, for athletes, spectators and the wider public."