The whole World was watching
London’s New Year’s Day Parade, the turn of year tradition, has injected multi millions of pounds into the UK economy and proved to be the ultimate shop window for the World.
The free family event, which does not receive a penny of public funding, was screened live by more than a thousand TV stations globally.
The World’s favourite parade bounced back to its brilliant best after two years of covid curbs that forced the event into a TV studio and then a static ticketed event
Eight thousand performers from 20 nations performed before packed streets in the West End of London.
A street audience, estimated at 550,000, were joined by television viewers around the World, watching on over 1,000 stations that received comprehensive live coverage.
Co-founder Bob Bone, who along with his wife Geri, created the parade 37 years ago, said: “We promised London an amazing event and we delivered.
“There has never been a more important event in our history. We needed to show the World the depth of spirit, heritage, history, and cultural diversity that this incredible city offers – and give everyone a fabulous, free party.
“We have helped inject billions into the London and UK economy by drawing in hundreds of thousands of spectators to the West End, and thousands of overseas performers – who all fund their own travel, accommodation and subsistence.
“Thanks to years of Covid restrictions, sections of this economy have taken an appalling hit, with hospitality, tourism and entertainment among them – so we have really helped to kick-start many businesses at the turn of the year to get things going.”
The parade, under the direction of Joe Bone for the very first time, attracted huge crowds to the 2-mile route through the West End and received universal acclaim.
Pop bands Toploader and Scouting for Girls, joined the 8,000 performers, from numerous nations, which included performance groups from 13 London boroughs, 24 US marching bands, stunt riders, stilt walkers, giant inflatable balloons, bag pipers, dancers and vintage vehicles, and a deal of pomp and circumstance to boot.
The parade helps raise funds for local London charities.
Joe said: “We promised to deliver a brilliant, spectacular event, and judging by the reaction of the crowds on the street and those watching around the World – we didn’t disappoint.
“The excitement out there was pulpable – and those watching at home on TV and online seemed to love it.
“All we have to do now is double down and do exactly that next year.”