Urgent police warning for one of London’s most iconic New Year’s Eve spots
Police have issued a warning to anyone planning to go to Primrose Hill for New Year’s Eve after a 16-year-old boy was stabbed to death last year.
Thousands gather at the hill, which offers one of the best views of London’s skyline, on December 31 to watch the firework displays.
But after 16-year-old Harry Pitman was murdered at the site in Camden last New Year’s Eve, police are urging large groups to go elsewhere.
Officers and park stewards will also be in attendance, and the park will close at 1am.
The Royal Parks has also reiterated no fireworks or lanterns were to be lit at Primrose Hill.
A Royal Parks Metropolitan Police spokesperson said: ‘I urge members of the public not to bring fireworks to Primrose Hill.
‘This will allow my officers to focus their efforts on ensuring that park visitors remain safe, that the atmosphere remains good-natured and that any anti-social behaviour can be dealt with swiftly.’
Harry had gathered to watch the display over the River Thames when he was knifed just yards from police officers during a scuffle with a stranger shortly before midnight.
His sister Tayla described her brother as a ‘good boy’ who had a ‘heart of gold’.
About 100 people – including Harry’s mother, brother and sister – gathered at Downhills Park in Haringey, north London, to pay their respects to the teenager, with many carrying flowers and balloons.
Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.
For more stories like this, check our news page.