London’s New Year's Eve fireworks showcase the capital to the world and we should delight in their immense popularity. Yet sadly, the Mayor of London is making the decision to introduce a £10 charge for the annual event this year — even children will be charged.

I believe the central London event must be accessible to everyone and that must mean it remains free.

It would be a scandal if any families were denied access to the event due to the introduction of tickets. Of course, the event attracts huge crowds and public safety is important.

However one easy way to manage the crowds would be to ensure more sponsored firework displays take place across London.

Not only would that be fairer, but it would avoid the risk we have with the mayor’s proposals where serious crowd management issues may take place outside the “pay zone” and be far harder to manage.

The mayor must rethink this decision and allow all Londoners to enjoy New Year’s Eve fireworks for free.

Caroline Pidgeon

Leader of the Liberal Democrat Group London Assembly