Parade in honour of London's big year

Parade in honour of London's big year NEWS

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London's New Year's Day parade has launched a thrilling year that will see both the Olympics and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee celebrated in the city, organisers have told the BBC.

The Parade attracted over half a million spectators to the streets to watch the likes of entertainer Russell Grant and his Strictly Come Dancing partner Flavia Cacace over the 2.2 mile route.

With over 1,000 cheer leaders and 8,000 performers in total it was a real tribute to the city and a spectacle of talent, colour and vision.

Dan Kirkby, communications director of London's New Year's Day Parade, said he was 'absolutely delighted' with the turnout for the start of a 'legendary' year from London. He said: 'The 26th New Year's Day Parade here in London is a wonderful platform for a fantastic city.'

The Queen, who will become only the second British sovereign to reign for 60 years when she celebrates her Diamond Jubilee later this year, had a New Year's message printed in the free guide given to spectators. In it she conveyed her 'sincere thanks' to all the performers.

Nasser Volant was commissioned to make and fly dozens of kites along the route.

Nasser Volant, the cousin of Khaled Hosseini, who wrote the novel 'The Kite Runner' was commissioned to make and fly dozens of kites along the parade route. His colourful display incorporated more than 20 giant birds of prey and 60 kites carrying the official logo of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee.

The route took in Piccadilly, Piccadilly Circus, Lower Regent Street, Pall Mall, Trafalgar Square, Whitehall and Parliament Street.