As the New Year draws closer, partygoers are already out in force to celebrate the arrival of 2022.

Groups could be seen outside pubs and bars earlier today, with friends gathering to begin the merriment.

This New Year's Eve is set to be the hottest ever recorded in the UK with Norfolk warmer than Nice.

Norwich, Cromer and Weybourne have all seen temperatures hit 15C today, with Nice in the south of France seeing highs of just 13C.

The warm dry weather could turn to rain in the evening, with light drizzle expected.

Many of Norwich's New Year celebrations have been cancelled, with organisers fearing rising Covid cases.

Cans 'N' Cocktails boss Andre Smith decided to ditch plans for December 31 as infections spiked.

And Jason and Julia Carter, landlords of the Gibraltar Gardens, assured punters the event is postponed rather than cancelled.

Covid rates are currently at record levels across the country. The Norfolk rate in the seven days up to Christmas Eve was 1,038 per 100,000 people, nearly double the 535 cases per 100,000 people high during the January peak 12 months ago.

The East of England Ambulance Service has also asked people to only call for an ambulance in an absolute emergency due to the organisation expecting a very busy evening. This will keep lines and crews free for those who need them the most.

The service is encouraging members of the public to call 111 or visit the website and only call 999 if someone is suffering from chest pains, breath problems or is choking.