A viral TikTok with almost two million views shows chaos as tens of thousands of people gathered to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks.
The video shows crowds of people being monitored by police on Lambeth Bridge as they wait for the iconic, annual firework display.
The police in the video are in one long line along the crowd and seem to be there to keep the event under control.
Later in the video, police can be seen grappling with people to try and control the crowd and shouting can be heard in the background.
The crowds in the TikTok appear to be huge with not an empty space in sight.
@livelans 📍Lambeth Bridge, London #newyear #nye #2023 #lambethbridge #londonpolice #metropolitanpolice #fireworkdisplay ♬ Blue Lights - Jorja Smith
An ambulance flashing its blue lights can be seen trying to get through the thick crowds of people.
One policeman in the video is stood on something to be higher up than the crowd and looks as if he is shouting instructions to people.
Visitors come from far and wide to nab a spot to watch the 12-minute firework display in the flesh each year.
However, this year people were disappointed with the organisation of the event and many took to TripAdvisor to leave negative reviews.
A reviewer, Gianni T, who was visiting with their family, expressed dissatisfaction with the event organisation.
They said: "Even the flow to the subway was completely disorganised, with a crowd of people at real risk of accidents."
The only thing that redeemed the fireworks in Gianni's view was their "peculiarity".
Another reviewer said: "You would be mad to go to this event."
They described a scene of confusion and distress, with growing numbers of agitated attendees waiting in disarray, fearing for their safety and that of their children.
The reviewer said: "It became clear people at the front were being crushed.
“People at the back saw movement and pushed forward.
"At no stage was there a single steward, just random shouting, mostly of agitated people worrying about not getting in or being trampled.
"It was frightening and upsetting, especially for those with kids.
“This was an absolute total and utter disgrace."
The London celebrations were organised by the Mayor, and featured a unity-themed display, alongside references to the King's coronation and the 75th anniversary of the Windrush crossing.
A spokesperson for the Mayor of London said: “City Hall worked in close partnership with the Met police, Transport for London, British Transport Police and event stewarding teams to put on this year’s spectacular New Year’s Eve celebrations.
"While the vast majority of more than 100,000 ticket-holders enjoyed the display, we’re sorry if any ticketholders were unable to fully enjoy the evening.
"A number of people arrived at ticket gates with fake tickets and were refused entry, and unfortunately this led to delays at entry points.
"City Hall continues to work closely with the Met police to tackle the sale of these fake tickets.”
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