Disappointed crowds gather for fireworks display after false rumours circulated online
Large crowds deceived by social media rumours gathered for a New Year's Eve fireworks display - despite police warnings of no scheduled event.
Watch more of our videos on ShotsTV.com
and on Freeview 262 or Freely 565
People travelled to Birmingham city centre in hopes of ringing in the new year by watching fireworks light up the skies.
Attendees were however left disappointed when it was revealed that reports of an event taking place were fake.
It is believed social media scammers spread rumours about the display, prompting large crowds to gather.
West Midlands Police had addressed the rumours earlier in the day, warning the public that no official fireworks event was scheduled for this year.
Despite their efforts, many turned up.
Birmingham Superintendent Emlyn Richards said: "There are rumours online about a fireworks display in Centenary Square, but no such event is planned this year. We want to avoid disappointment and advise people not to travel into the city expecting a display."
Elsewhere in the city on New Year's Eve, fireworks were successfully let off and the skyline was lit up with bright colours in celebration of the start of 2025.