|
London glitters with fireworks
31/12/2007 21:27 - (SA)
London - Hundreds of thousands of
revellers will see in the New Year at a huge fireworks display
by the River Thames, while millions more will raise a glass at
parties across the country.
An estimated 350 000 people will pack the capital's streets
to watch the 10-minute display at the London Eye observation
wheel after Big Ben's chimes herald the start of 2008.
"The fireworks display will kick off 2008 in spectacular
style," said Mayor Ken Livingstone.
The Metropolitan Police said 3 600 officers would be on duty
to help cope with New Year's Eve crowds that have doubled over
the last three years in London.
"What used to be a relatively small, spontaneous night is
now a world-class event," said Scotland Yard's Superintendent
Andy Tarrant.
In Scotland, up to 100 000 people will pack the streets of
Edinburgh for the city's Hogmanay street party.
X Factor winner Leon Jackson will entertain the crowds at
a live concert, while eight tons of fireworks will be set off
from the city's seven hills.
In Cardiff, circus performers, acrobats and fireworks will
entertain the crowds at an event in the grounds of the Welsh
capital's castle.
'Drink sensibly'
With pubs and clubs braced for one of the busiest nights of
the year, the government urged party-goers to drink sensibly.
Home Office Minster Vernon Coaker warned that alcohol often
plays a part in violent crime, rape and road accidents.
"Have fun but stay safe is the message," he said. "Taking a
few simple precautions can ensure that a fun night out stays
that way and really goes with a swing."
New Year's Eve spells disruption for many rail passengers as
part of one of the busiest train lines will remain closed for
engineering work.
Network Rail said work on the West Coast Main Line had
over-run, disrupting all trains due to go through Rugby, mostly
Virgin Train services.
There was better news for people using public transport in
London: Travel on buses and tubes will be free between 23:45
and 04:30 on New Year's Day.
Weather forecasters said Britain will be spared the gales
and torrential rain that forced the cancellation of last year's
Hogmanay event in Edinburgh.
The Met Office predicted mild weather, cloud and some rain
in the northwest, with temperatures at midnight from 6 to 11
degrees Celsius.
However, the mercury will plummet from Wednesday as the New
Year brings a cold snap.
- Reuters
|
News
