ZERO-tolerance. That was what the police promised in the run-up to what some were describing as "Black Friday", referring to the combination of New Year's Eve and the normal Friday night revels.

However, it would appear that the increased police presence on the streets of villages, towns and city paid dividends, with only 17 alcohol-related arrests during the crucial period.

"It was a busier night than usual and the cells were full, but we were well prepared" said the police statement.

And this was the story across the emergency services.

Despite the dire predictions, all appeared under control.

Extra staff manning the main accident and emergency department at the Worcestershire Royal meant that they could cope with the extra pressure.

And this extra pressure was mainly due to the Ambulance service, who were attending calls at the rate of one every three minutes.

"It was real nightmare, but we coped", an exhausted spokesman told the Evening News.

So, a busy night, ameliorated by what looks like a lot of forward planning and hard work by all concerned.

It was not exactly peaceful and even! But, given the circumstances, most of those who were merely celebrating did it safely.

As the police summed up: "The vast majority of revellers were law-abiding and good natured".

On behalf of these law-abiding citizens, the Evening News congratulates the emergency services on a job well done.