London crowds party prior to Boris booze ban

Monday, 02 June 2008

London?s Circle Line tube system, was overrun this weekend (May 31) as crowds of revellers partied prior to the incoming alcohol ban on the network.

New mayor Boris Johnson announced a ban on alcohol on the capital's transport network, effective from June 1 2008, shortly after he was voted to power.

But numerous revellers, using social networking groups such as Facebook, organised parties to celebrate the last night of legal drinking on the tube - the Circle Line system and Liverpool Street Station became main focal points for the festivities.

However, the night did not pass without incident and British Transport Police (BTP) announced 17 arrests were made.

Operation Rowan, which targeted the unofficial gathering of people on the Circle Line, arrested people for offences including assault, drunk and disorder, public order and drug offences.

BTP Supt Ellie Bird said: "This was an unfortunate end to what was intended to be a fun event.

"The arrests were made following sporadic outbreaks of disorder which is very disappointing given the intention of the organisers was that this should not be a disorderly or disruptive event.

"There was a definite festive atmosphere throughout the night but a very small minority of people spoilt the party for everybody."

View a clip of the revellers in action by clicking below.

Alex Glenville said:

	I was outraged by the behaviour of the drunken hoodlums on the tube trains on Sat*day evening. Innocent pasengers like myself suffered delays, intimidation and the unpleasant odours of alcohol and vomit. I felt saddened to be British. Tourists recoiled from the drunken mob in horror and I myself was extremely frightened and upset.
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