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 | | Tuesday, 1 January, 2002, 10:50 GMT Hogmanay hailed a success  Hogmanay attracted 100,000 to Edinburgh city centre Organisers of Scotland's two largest Hogmanay street parties have declared them a resounding success. More than 100,000 people attended the Edinburgh event and 95,000 took to the streets in Glasgow. Lothian and Borders Assistant Chief Constable Malcolm Dickson, who headed the police operation, said: "Once again we've seen a very successful street party with a great atmosphere. "The safety arrangements worked well, and that's a tribute to the party-goers who showed good common sense and co-operation with police and stewards.
Early figures suggested about 20 people were sent to the Royal Infirmary and the Western General overnight. Edinburgh Lord Provost Eric Milligan, said: "There was a real buzz of excitement around the city last night, making for a fantastic event enjoyed by Edinburgh's citizens and visitors alike. "Edinburgh was once again the place to be for Hogmanay and last night's success will ensure it continues to be for many years to come - but before that, there is still another day of entertainment to enjoy." Pete Irvine, director of Unique Events which organised the Edinburgh extravaganza, said: "We had a sensational New Year celebration in Edinburgh. Again we've been so lucky with the weather. 'Most successful' "All three nights of the festival so far have been crisp and clear with The Torchlight Procession, the Night Afore party in George Street and last night's fireworks and music spectacular bringing the city to life under a fantastic winter moon. "The atmosphere was incredible with people from all over the world celebrating what is quite simply the mother of all Hogmanays." Organisers of Glasgow's Hogmanay celebrations described the event, which saw approximately 95,000 take to the streets, as the "biggest and most successful ever". About 24,000 people crammed into George Square for the Radio Clyde Dance Party, while thousands rang in the New Year in the Merchant City. 52 arrests Up to the countdown to midnight, crowds jumped up and down, hugging and kissing each other, letting out a loud cheer to welcome in the New Year as pyrotechnics and spotlights were set off. Strathclyde police reported 52 arrests in the city centre, 27 of which were related to the Hogmanay celebrations, mainly for breach of the peace. Glasgow Lord Provost Alex Mosson said: "Now in its eighth year, Glasgow's Hogmanay event continues to capture the essence of the city and its people. Thousands gathered together to celebrate the start of 2002 with a variety of music and entertainment which offered something for everyone." The clean-up operation was under way on New Year's day in Glasgow and Edinburgh city centres. | | See also:  Internet links: The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites Top Scotland stories now:  Links to more Scotland stories are at the foot of the page. | ||||||||||||||||||||
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