Eyebrows were raised at Henley Royal Regatta when security guards turned away more than 100 stylishly-dressed ladies because their hem lines were too short.

Many were forced to splash out on expensive new outfits after they were turned away from the exclusive stewards' enclosure after falling foul of regatta rules which state hemlines should be 'at or below the knee'.

The strict enforcement of the rules by security guards ruined one of the highlights of the social calendar for women who were turned away.

One of those forced to buy a new outfit was Penny Williamson, founder member of the London Ladies Club, who has been coming to Henley for 20 years.

"I've watched more than 100 girls, many with skirts right on the knee, being turned away by guards who would be better placed at a prison camp," she said.

Regatta spokesman Sophie Horton denied that the organisers had been tougher on dress this year.

"All the members should know the dress code and it is up to them to tell their guests," she said.

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