Boris Pledges 2012 Magic To Extend Into 2013
Fireworks set to close a spectacular year for London
The Mayor of London's New Year's Eve fireworks display will conclude one of the most momentous years in the capital's history in spectacular style this evening. As well as providing a fitting tribute to such a magical year for London, it will also pave the way for a fabulous 2013.
Focused around the London Eye on the Southbank, up to 250,000 people are expected to pack in along the banks of the river Thames to watch the display, with millions more seeing it on television across the UK and overseas.
Ahead of tonight's pyrotechnic display, the Mayor pledged to help keep the spirit of the past year alive in the capital.
He said: 'From the Diamond Jubilee to that huge collection of Team GB medals, 2012 has quite literally glimmered with excitement and enthusiasm. A fantastic mood of community has percolated the entire population of our city and beyond. We are going to make sure we use the success of this year to deliver more jobs, more homes and more regeneration for London and build on that fantastic sense of togetherness and community to ensure a real volunteering legacy. It’s been a wonderful year, but believe me, 2013 is going to be every bit as exciting.'
Following their hard work during the London 2012 Games, over 150 of the Mayor’s Team London Ambassadors will also be volunteering at the event to help ensure it is a success. They will be based at three central stations - Victoria, Charing Cross and Waterloo, and a number of key spots including the Embankment, Parliament Square, Trafalgar Square and County Hall. They will be on hand to give out maps, help direct people to the viewing areas and also provide guidance and advice on getting home safely.
Revellers wishing to see in the New Year in central London are advised to plan ahead and be prepared for large crowds, on the streets and at venues. Many pubs, bars and clubs in the centre of town and elsewhere will be ticketed with advance booking required.
The Mayor of London's New Year's Eve fireworks display is always popular. Each year it attracts a capacity crowd, who have a long wait in the designated viewing areas along the Thames. There is limited space with the viewing areas likely to be full by 9pm or 10pm. Access to each zone will be closed as soon as it is full. Due to the crowds and waiting time people with young children may wish to consider celebrating the New Year closer to home. People will also be able to watch the display live on BBC One.
Public transport will be the best way to get around the capital on New Year's Eve. Tube, DLR, tram and selected National Rail services in Greater London will run all night. Night and 24 hour bus routes will run as normal, but there will be a reduction in bus services leaving central London from around 5pm to around 3am on New Year's morning because of road closures. There will be free London travel, sponsored by Diageo GB, on bus, Tube, tram and DLR from 11:45pm until 4:30am and on London Overground until last trains. Please plan your return journey in advance and be patient if your return journey involves queuing before boarding your train, bus or tram.
• More information can be found at www.london.gov.uk/nye.
• Information to help you plan your journey over the same period will be available at www.tfl.gov.uk/festive
Following the fireworks, the New Year celebrations will continue with the New Year's Day Parade which will take place on Tuesday 1 January 2013 in central London. Thousands are due to take part in the lively and colourful parade, including participants from around the world. For more details visit www.londonparade.co.uk
December 30, 2012