New Year's Eve: Hundreds of thousands gather for London fireworks

It was the first time since 2019, when the Covid pandemic started, that people were able to attend the display

More than 100,000 people gathered for London's New Year's Eve fireworks display.

Big Ben bonged as huge crowds gathered along the Thames Embankment to watch 12,000 fireworks streak across the sky.

It was the first time since 2019, when the Covid pandemic started, that people were able to attend the display.

The capital city welcomed in the new year with a 12-minute fireworks display set to music from Stormzy, Calvin Harris, Rihanna and Madness.

Tributes to Queen as fireworks welcome in 2023

Hundreds of thousands gathered on the streets of London to see the new year fireworks

Crowds filmed the display on their mobile phones

The sold-out show paid tribute to the late Queen - with more drones forming the shape of a crown in the sky, before transforming into the shape of ER II and then the familiar image of her face in profile on a huge coin.

Drones formed the shape of a crown in the sky, before transforming into the shape of ER II

The display also featured a voice recording from the late Queen and words from Dame Judi Dench before honouring the King, together with a message from Charles about the need to preserve our planet's future.

Drones spelled out a positive message during the show, welcoming in "2023 with love from London" as fireworks exploded behind them.

Drones spelled out "2023 with love from London" as fireworks exploded behind them

Mayor of London Sadiq Khan said he was "delighted" that Londoners and visitors could once again join together on the banks of the River Thames to ring in the new year.

Amy Dickson, who travelled from Bath to watch the fireworks in the capital, said the display was "absolutely amazing".

"I've always wanted to see London's fireworks and they didn't disappoint," she said.

"It's been a huge year for the country and to be there with everyone watching them and welcoming in 2023 was just amazing. There was an incredible atmosphere - a moment I'll never forget."

Big Ben bonged as the clock struck midnight

Thousands of Metropolitan Police officers were on duty across the capital, with the force later saying eight people were arrested for alleged offences including assault on police, drunk and disorderly behaviour, and possession of an offensive weapon.

Last year a smaller display with drones was broadcast near London's landmarks.

Two women enjoy a glass of wine whilst they watched the display over the Thames