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Britain has welcomed in the New Year as thousands of people gathered on the banks of the River Thames to watch a spectacular fireworks display.

London revellers have been watched over by every available officer at the Metropolitan Police's disposal, including hundreds of firearms personnel.

As many as 3,000 officers have been working across the capital, as cities across the world heighten security in the wake of the Paris terror attacks.

Many revellers braved the intermittent spells of rain last night ahead of the stunning midnight display featuring around 12,000 fireworks.

Earlier, other global cities beckoned in the New Year, including Dubai, where celebrations were tempered by a blaze in one of its tallest buildings.