About Turn For London March
The route of the annual New Year’s Day parade through London is being reversed to satisfy American TV broadcasters.
The organisers are anxious that American audiences (i.e. potential tourists) wake up to see such iconic landmarks as Nelson’s Column and Big Ben in all their glory.
So, after a goodwill message from the Queen has been read out, the parade will now start at noon London time at the Ritz Hotel in Park Lane and make its way to Parliament Square.
The annual event is apparently already hugely popular in the United States. Last year, nearly 4,000 Americans from 24 different marching bands took part and even more are expected to be involved this year.
With an estimated US television audience of up to 100 million viewers, organisers say the parade is a fantastic shop window for the capital’s tourism and they want London looking its best. The parade’s executive director, Bob Bone, said:
“The Christmas and New Year period is vital for tourism, when millions decide where they will visit in the summer. This year, of all years, it is vital that we attract every last one of them.”
by Andy Moreton
It’s a great city to explore at any time of the year, so take a look at Luxique’s comprehensive selection of luxury hotels in London.
Again, thanks for the article. I will look for the London parade on US television networks. Love your blog. Caren
Pingback by Caren O'Brien — December 16, 2009 @ 10:19 pm