Hardy Brits have ignored gale warnings and torrential downpours to see in the New Year in style — as traditional fireworks lit up Big Ben in spite of storm warnings that forced many displays to be axed. With weather warnings for wind and rain in place, many planned December 31 events have been cancelled, but the capital's minute fireworks display proceeded as scheduled to mark the start of Thousands stood along the Embankment of the Thames to watch a spectacular fireworks display around the London Eye.
The annual showstopper saw around , ticket holders unite on the banks of the River Thames to witness the capital's biggest-ever celebration of fireworks, lighting and music, with many millions watching from homes around the globe. More than 12, fireworks and lights lit up the sky around the London Eye as the eyes of the world watched London's unforgettable show, set to a soundtrack of songs for people to dance the cold away and voice-over clips.
This year millions watching at home on the BBC were also treated to a world-first use of hologauze animations to celebrate the new year, creating holographic illusions of British icons and memorable events as the fireworks were taking place. The fireworks culminated in a golden extravaganza of sparkles illuminating the sky above London, with Paddington ending the show by saying: 'As you enter the new year, always remember [ Happy New Year.
London's landmarks were illuminated by the incredible fireworks display at midnight. The fireworks included a projection of the Union Jack on to the London Eye, as well as red, white and blue sparks. The special animations included the London Eye being filled with the Union flag in honour of the 80th anniversary of D-Day last year, Olympic medals to celebrate the success of Team GB at the Paris Olympics and Paralympics , and wishing a happy upcoming 25th birthday to official partner the London Eye.
The fireworks saw a projection of the Union Jack on to the London Eye, as well as red, white and blue sparks. The iconic celebration, which began with Big Ben's renowned chimes, is shown live to many millions around the world and tens of millions more on social media, boosting London's economy and providing an incredible global advert for our tourism industry. Mayor Sadiq Khan promised that the fireworks would be the 'best we've ever laid on', adding that they were the 'biggest fireworks taking place anywhere across Europe'.
