Ambulance crews dealt with almost 2,000 calls on New Year’s Eve, about double the amount on an average night.

The East of England Ambulance Service, which looks after St Albans and Harpenden, responded to 1,970 calls between 7pm and 7am.

This figure was marginally down on last year, when ambulances were called to 1,989 emergencies.

Neil Storey, director for emergency operations, said: "My thanks and praise go out to all our staff and volunteers who worked during this difficult shift.

"While a downward trend, however slight, is good news and a sign that perhaps people are taking note of our advice, it's still a very busy start to the year."