Prosecutor Louis Mably said the race between Oxford and Cambridge was spoiled for hundreds of thousands of people.

BBC: Trenton Oldfield 'caused chaos' at University Boat Race

"The risk for the swimmer was great, " he said in the statement, read to the court by prosecutor Louis Mably.

BBC: Boat Race protester Trenton Oldfield jailed

Opening the case, Mr Mably told jurors at Isleworth Crown Court, west London, the annual event was spoiled not only for the rowing crews but the spectators watching at home on BBC TV and along the course.

BBC: Trenton Oldfield 'caused chaos' at University Boat Race