The mayor of Wandsworth has given his official support to this year's New Year's Day Parade.

More than 10,000 performers from around the world are taking part in the parade and more than a million people are expected to go along and watch.

Councillor Ron Smith has sent an official letter of support to organisers and everyone taking part in the parade.

Most of London's 32 boroughs are represented. They will also have collectors appealing for donations from the crowds. The money will go to the mayors' official charities.

The parade also features cheerleaders, marching bands, clowns, jugglers and dancers plus a dozen 90ft high inflatable cartoon characters.

The police are advising spectators, who can watch the parade for free, to arrive early, preferably by public transport.

The parade begins at noon in Parliament Square and runs along Whitehall, Trafalgar Square, Pall Mall, Lower Regent Street, Piccadilly Circus and Piccadilly.

December 27, 2001 09:00