World
Travel chaos after revellers brave 75mph winds to ring in the new year
THERE was carnage at London’s New Year’s Eve fireworks display as thugs stormed the barriers.
Revellers then experienced travel chaos as crowds packed into the likes of Waterloo Station – and Oxford Street was locked down after a machete fight left a man with catastrophic injuries.
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Crowds of revellers were also tricked into flocking to Centenary Square in Birmingham after social media fraudsters posted about a fake display.
Chaotic footage sent to the Sun showed groups of yobs shoving their way through security on Victoria Street just an hour before the iconic fireworks display took place at Embankment.
People across the country battled travel chaos and braved 75mph winds and torrential rain as they ushered in 2025 with a bang.
The London Eye and Big Ben acted as the perfect backdrop for the annual festivities with the skyline lit up as joyous crowds cheered along.
However, some celebrations across Britain were cancelled because of the weather.
Events in Blackpool, Newcastle, the Isle of Wight and Ripon and North Yorkshire were all axed.
And they continued yesterday, with London’s New Year’s Day Parade delayed due to high winds forecast, a spokesperson for the event said.
Earlier, the tiny Pacific island of Kiritimati, part of a former British colony called Kiribati, was the first to see the new year.
New Zealand followed soon after with a fireworks display over the 1,076ft Sky Tower – the tallest building in Auckland – as they were the first major city to cheer in 2025.
In Australia, a million revellers flocked to Sydney Harbour to watch a 12-minute explosion of colour as 53,500 pyrotechnics erupted over the famous Opera House.
Pop superstar Robbie Williams led the crowds there in a mass singalong before the clock struck 12.
German backpacker Hanna Kronziel, 20, and her pals bagged their spots 20 hours before the fireworks began.
She said: “It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
In Jakarta, Indonesia, a show featuring 800 drones wowed crowds as they lit up the night sky.
But most of the celebrations in South Korea were cancelled or cut back as the country continues to mourn the 179 killed in Sunday’s plane crash.
Paris, Berlin, Taiwan, Thailand, Singapore and Dubai all had spectacular light shows of their own.
BRITAIN’S WEATHER WOES
Here in the UK, bad weather forced cancellations across the country with revellers being left unimpressed.
Michael Ellis, 31, railed at Newcastle council for cancelling the event on the banks of the Tyne.
He said: “Did any of the dingbats working for this wretched council bother to check the weather forecast? Winds due to drop dramatically by 9pm.”
Catherine Hutchinson, of Gateshead, added: “How hard can it be to light a firework fuse?”
Peter McVay said: “It’s a bit of wind and rain — we’re even woke about the weather now.”
And 50,000 were disappointed as events at Edinburgh’s Hogmanay party were cancelled.
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American Richard Newton had travelled more than 4,000 miles from Atlanta with his wife and children only to find the Edinburgh bash scrapped.
He said: “We’ve been planning for this for five years. It’s heartbreaking.”
But the display in London did go ahead despite concern beforehand about high winds.
A crowd of 100,000 people who braved the weather cheered fromthe banks of the Thames as Big Ben brought in the new year with its 12 bongs.
More than 12,000 fireworks were set off on river barges and from the foot of the London Eye as millions more watched on television.
However, hoards of thugs stormed through security barriers an hour before at Embankment.
A witness told The Sun: “It was dangerous. They were pushing people, being violent and jumping around.”
Meanwhile, a fireworks display to mark 1,500 years since the founding of Wales’s oldest city Bangor was also among those cancelled.
Look back at our live blog below for all the standout moments …
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New Year’s Day dips cancelled
New Year’s Day swimming events were cancelled because of high winds.
Swims at Minehead beach in Somerset, Bristol’s harbour and Lyme Regis have all been postponed.
St Margaret’s Hospice Care, organisers of the Minehead charity swim, said: “This decision has not been taken lightly.”
The Rotary Club of Lyme Regis, organisers of the annual charity Lyme Lunge sea dip, which had been set to take place off on the sandy beach from 1pm, said: “The weather forecast for Wednesday noon is dire. With winds from the SW at 50-60mph and heavy rain forecast…
“I think you will all agree that we must put the safety of Lungers first.”
A yellow Met Office weather warning for strong winds, covering the entire West Country was issued this morning.
Last year the Minehead swim saw 200 people take the plunge.
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Revellers shelter under scarves, bags & broken umbrellas
New Year’s Eve revellers sheltered under scarves, bags and broken umbrellas to brave the wind and rain.
Thousands of Brits across the country took to the streets to usher in 2025 despite the chaotic weather.
Winds as strong as 75mph and torrential rain were not enough to halt the boozy celebrations as pals made the most of things.
But as the night rumbled on, partygoers were forced to make do with whatever they had to battle against the elements.
They were seen using scarves, plastic bags, handbags, pictures, jackets and broken umbrellas.
Two partygoers were all smiles despite the heavy rainCredit: NB PRESS LTD -
London’s New Year’s Day Parade delayed
London’s New Year’s Day Parade has been delayed due to high winds forecast, a spokesperson for the event said.
The parade was due to begin at midday, but is set to start 30 minutes later than planned, and inflatable cartoon characters will not be inflated after advice from the Met Office, spokesman Dan Kirkby added.
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Plenty to look forward to in 2025
There is plenty to look forward to in 2025, with AI advances on the horizon and rampant inflation tipped to slow.
Britpop bad boys Oasis will make a long-awaited reunion, while K-pop megastars BTS return to the stage after military service in South Korea.
Football aficionados will also discover a revamped 32-team Club World Cup hosted by the United States.
And about 400 million pilgrims are expected at the spectacular Kumbh Mela festival on India’s sacred riverbanks — billed as the largest gathering of humanity on the planet.
The UK weather service has forecast sweltering global temperatures for 2025, suggesting it will likely rank among the hottest years recorded.
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2024 in a nutshell – Olympic glory, elections, turmoil in the Middle East and Ukraine
The old year brought Olympic glory, a dramatic Donald Trump return, and turmoil in the Middle East and Ukraine.
It is all but certain that 2024 will go down as the hottest year on record, with climate-fuelled disasters wreaking havoc from the plains of Europe to the Kathmandu Valley.
In 2024, Taylor Swift brought the curtain down on her Eras tour, pygmy hippo Moo Deng went viral and teenage football prodigy Lamine Yamal helped Spain conquer the Euros.
The Paris Olympics united the world for a brief few weeks in July and August as athletes swam in the Seine and raced in the shadows of the Eiffel Tower.
It was a global year of elections, with countless millions going to the polls across more than 60 countries.
Vladimir Putin prevailed in a Russian ballot widely dismissed as a sham, while a student uprising toppled Bangladesh’s prime minister.
No vote was as closely watched as the November 5 contest that secured Trump’s return to the White House.
The US president-elect has threatened to pile economic pain on China and boasted of his ability to halt the Ukraine war within “24 hours”.
A change of government is likewise afoot in Ghana, where John Mahama will be sworn in on January 7 after a peaceful transition raised hope among ordinary Ghanaians.
Turmoil rippled across the Middle East as Bashar al-Assad fled Syria, Israel marched into southern Lebanon, and doctored electronics exploded in a wave of Israeli assassinations targeting Hezbollah.
Civilians endured the grinding war in Gaza, where dwindling stocks of food, shelter and medicine made a humanitarian crisis even bleaker.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine inches towards its three-year anniversary in February.
Ukraine must now contend with a Trump administration seemingly intent on winding back crucial military aid but President Volodymyr Zelensky remains defiant.
He acknowledged in his new year address that “peace will not be given to us as a gift, but we will do everything to stop Russia and end the war”.
Sudan also marked its second new year of war between the regular army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces that has killed tens of thousands and uprooted more than 12 million.
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Kate & William share sweet pictures and New Year message
William and Kate have shared sweet pictures of George, Charlotte and Louis in a wholesome New Year message.
The royal couple posted a number of snaps including alongside Taylor Swift, teen photographer Liz Hatton and rugby icon Rob Burrow.
A tweet accompanying the photos said: “Happy New Year! Wishing you all a wonderful 2025.”
The collection of snaps also included William and Kate beaming alongside their three children.
The backstage photo of Swift taking a selfie with Wills, George and Charlotte came in June earlier this year.
It was taken the same night footage was posted on social media showing William dancing in the crowd among thousands of roaring Swifties.
A beaming family photo was included among the snapsCredit: AFP -
Scammers lured thousands to fake New Year’s display
Social media scammers lured thousands of people to Birmingham City Centre to watch a New Year’s “fireworks” spectacular – but it was all a con.
Revellers gathered in Centenary Square to usher in 2025, only to be told by cops the display was not happening.
Birmingham Superintendent Emlyn Richards said: “There are rumours online that a fireworks display will take place in Centenary Square but there isn’t a planned event this year.
“We don’t want people travelling into the city to be disappointed when they arrive and discover this is the case.
“There will be thousands of people travelling into the city to enjoy themselves at venues across the city.
“We will be visible on the streets tonight to ensure everything runs smoothly and people have a wonderful evening.”
Thousands of revellers gathered in Centenary Square, Birmingham, for the fake displayCredit: Alamy -
Shocking footage shows ticketless revellers storm barriers
Hoards of thugs violently stormed through the barriers during the capital’s fireworks display last night, in what witnesses described as “Lawless London”.
Chaotic footage showed groups of yobs shoving their way through security on Victoria Street just an hour before the iconic fireworks display took place at Embankment.
A witness told The Sun: “It was dangerous. They didn’t even care that police and security were there.
“They were pushing people, being violent and jumping around. There was no regard for safety. Police haven’t arrested anyone – it’s Lawless London.”
Footage of the ruckus sent to The Sun shows an increasingly restless crowd gathering at the barriers.
A horde of high-vis jacketed marshals attempted to calm matters with little success.
Without warning, people began to stampede past staff and police officers to get down to the banks of the Thames.
Officials and police were unable to stop dozens from breaking through -
Happy New Year to all our readers
We’d like to wish all of our loyal Sun readers a Happy New Year.
If you’re just waking up – or just going to bed – thanks for joining us as we celebrate the start of 2025.
Already revellers around the world have been bringing in the new year throughout the past 24 hours with elaborate fireworks displays and street parties.
There have been some dazzling images coming in from across the world, not least these, below, from Sydney.
All the best from The Sun to you for 2025. As a wise man once said, “let’s hope it’s a good one”. Cheers!
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Why was Hogmanay cancelled?
High winds of between 50-70mph were set to batter Edinburgh yesterday as a weather warning was issued.
Organisers announced they were cancelling all events over public safety fears – including a headline show under the castle by Texas, fronted by Sharleen Spiteri, below.
An Edinburgh’s Hogmanay spokesperson said: “Due to ongoing high winds and inclement weather in Edinburgh city centre, we regret to announce that outdoor events scheduled for tonight and December 31 are unable to go ahead on the grounds of public safety.”
It is the fifth time in history the celebrations have been called off.
It was cancelled in 2003/4 and 2006/7 over high winds. And they didn’t go ahead in 2020/21, 2021/22 due to COVID.
Credit: Getty -
When the rest of the world rings in the New Year
Below is a list of when different parts of the world will welcome 2025 using London time.
January 1
- Now – Eastern Standard Time in the US – New York, Washington, Detroit and Cuba
- 6am – Central Standard Time in the US – Chicago
- 7am – Mountain Standard Time in the US – Colorado, Arizona
- 8am – Pacific Standard Time in the US – LA, Nevada
- 9am – Alaska and French Polynesia
- 10am – Hawaii, Tahiti and Cook Island
- 11am – American Samoa
- 12pm – Baker Island, Howland Island
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In pictures: dazzling display in Sydney
Here are some images from Sydney, taken shortly after revellers welcomed in 2025.
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Steve Lamacq receives MBE in New Year’s Honours list – but what is it?
The New Year Honours is a part of the British honours system, with New Year’s Day being marked by naming new members of orders of chivalry and recipients of other official honours.
Among those being honoured this year are Sadiq Khan, Mayor of London, Gareth Southgate, former manager of the England national football team, and broadcaster and journalist Steve Lamacq, pictured below with Noel Gallagher.
Lamacq, who hosts a Monday afternoon music show on BBC Radio 6 Music, has been nominated with an MBE for his services to broadcasting and music venues.
Credit: BBC -
Welcome to The Sun’s New Year’s blog
If you’re just joining us, we’re running a live blog today as countries continue to enter 2025.
We’ll keep you updated with all the latest developments after the UK ushered in the New Year in style.
Revellers across the globe have already celebrated with street parties and elaborate fireworks displays.
Credit: Getty -
When the rest of the world rings in the New Year
Below is a list of when different parts of the world will welcome 2025 using London time.
January 1
- Now – Cape Verde and the Spanish Isles
- 2am – Eastern Brazil, South Georgia and Sandwich Islands
- 3am – Argentina, remaining regions in Brazil, Chile, Paraguay
- 3.30am – Newfoundland and Labrador/Canada
- 4am – Eastern Canada, Bolivia, Puerto Rico
- 5am – Eastern Standard Time in the US – New York, Washington, Detroit and Cuba
- 6am – Central Standard Time in the US – Chicago
- 7am – Mountain Standard Time in the US – Colorado, Arizona
- 8am – Pacific Standard Time in the US – LA, Nevada
- 9am – Alaska and French Polynesia
- 10am – Hawaii, Tahiti and Cook Island
- 11am – American Samoa
- 12pm – Baker Island, Howland Island
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London landmarks star in stunning celebrations
Fireworks light up the sky over Elizabeth Tower, also known as Big BenCredit: PA 
The London Eye was marvellously lit up as the New Year was ushered inCredit: AP 
Londonâs fireworks featuring the BT Tower in the backgroundCredit: Rex -
Revellers watch as London lights up
People look up and film the fireworks above themCredit: AP 
A person wears New Year themed glasses as they watch the fireworksCredit: Reuters 
A woman takes a snap of the purple London Eye moments before the New Year commencedCredit: Reuters -
The iconic London skyline lit up in various colours
The skyline was flooded with fireworksCredit: AFP 
Some were a green colourCredit: AFP 
Others were a beautiful goldCredit: AFP 
The display started off in an incredible redCredit: AFP 
The fireworks were even a more traditional white colour during the lengthy displayCredit: Getty -
In pictures: London wows with fireworks display
An incredible fireworks display ushered in the New Year in the UK with thousands of excited revellers packing out the capitalCredit: Getty 
The iconic London skyline was sensationally lit upCredit: AFP 
Fireworks explode in the sky around the London Eye and Big BenCredit: AFP 
The display went on for several minutes as a roaring crowd cheered onCredit: Getty 
The display marked the start of 2025Credit: AFP -
In pictures: London wows with fireworks display
An incredible fireworks display ushered in the New Year in the UK with thousands of excited revellers packing out the capitalCredit: Getty The iconic London skyline was sensationally lit upCredit: AFP Fireworks explode in the sky around the London Eye and Big BenCredit: AFP The display went on for several minutes as a roaring crowd cheered onCredit: Getty The display marked the start of 2025Credit: AFP -
It’s officially 2025 in the UK – Happy New Year!
If you’re just joining us, welcome to 2025. We’re running a live blog today as countries begin to enter the new year – with revellers in the UK set to celebrate across the country in style.
We’ll keep you updated here with all the latest developments from around the world.
Also welcoming in New Year’s Day at the same time as the UK are Ireland, Ghana, Iceland and Portugal.
Cheers!
Credit: Getty
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Happy New Year from France
France welcomed 2025 with a bang as stunning fireworks in pink, orange, yellow and red lit up the Paris sky
Hundreds of people gathered at Champs Elysees Avenue during the New Year’s Eve celebrations.
A great goodbye to the year the country hosted the Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games.
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It’s officially 2025 in Germany, France and Italy – who’s next?
Below is a list of when different parts of the world will welcome 2025 using London time.
January 1
- Midnight – UK, Ireland, Ghana, Iceland, Portugal
- 1am – Cape Verde and the Spanish Isles
- 2am – Eastern Brazil, South Georgia and Sandwich Islands
- 3am – Argentina, remaining regions in Brazil, Chile, Paraguay
- 3.30am – Newfoundland and Labrador/Canada
- 4am – Eastern Canada, Bolivia, Puerto Rico
- 5am – Eastern Standard Time in the US – New York, Washington, Detroit and Cuba
- 6am – Central Standard Time in the US – Chicago
- 7am – Mountain Standard Time in the US – Colorado, Arizona
- 8am – Pacific Standard Time in the US – LA, Nevada
- 9am – Alaska and French Polynesia
- 10am – Hawaii, Tahiti and Cook Island
- 11am – American Samoa
- 12pm – Baker Island, Howland Island
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Inside Switzerland’s bizarre start to the New Year
The Swiss are due to celebrate the start of 2025 at 11pm (UK time) with the European nation known for their odd activities to celebrate the year.
One event, dubbed the Achetringele procession, sees members of the public dress up as “Baesemann” figures.
Translated in English as “broom man”, the event sees people put on a creepy wooden mask and carry around a large broom across the region of Laupen.
Revellers also take air-filled pig bladders with them on the journey across the city.
The idea is to drive away evil spirits so everyone starts the New Year on a clean and happy slate.
Elsewhere, the Swiss are also known to take part in a traditional New Year’s Eve dip at Lake Moossee in Moosseedorf.
People of all ages come together to celebrate together in the crystal clear waters as they wash away the previous year’s woes.
A young âBaesemannâ carrying a long-handled broom with him on last year’s âAchetringeleâ processionCredit: EPA 
The event takes over the region of Laupen each New Years EveCredit: EPA 
Elsewhere Swiss swimmers also take part in a traditional New Yearâs Eve dip at Lake Moossee in MoosseedorfCredit: AP -
Dozens more countries enter into 2025
An eleventh time zone has ticked over past midnight across three separate continents.
Greece, Ukraine, South Africa and Egypt are among the biggest nations to have just kicked off their New Year celebrations.
Elsewhere, Sudan, Libya, Israel, Lebanon, Romania, Latvia, Lithuania, Estonia and Finland have also joined the 2025 club.
Almost 20 other countries are also currently celebrating.
Drones form a 2025 next to the ancient Parthenon temple on Acropolis hill in AthensCredit: Reuters 
Fireworks erupt over the Giza Pyramids just outside of Cairo, EgyptCredit: AP
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