Bristol braces for ‘Welsh invasion’ on New Year’s Eve as party-goers dodge Covid curbs

Pubs and clubs in Bristol are braced for an influx of Welsh revellers seeking to dodge Covid restrictions on New Year’s Eve.

Despite nightclubs closing in Wales along with Scotland and Northern Ireland over the Omicron surge, Boris Johnson confirmed that England would not come under any new coronavirus measures before December 31.

It is expected that hundreds of party-goers will make a quick dash across one of the Severn bridges from South Wales into Bristol to celebrate the arrival of 2022 amid the city’s buzzing nightlife, especially as there are no rules on travelling.

The divide has seen First Minister for Wales Mark Drakeford come under fire, as Welsh hospitality businesses are set to lose out after what has already been a challenging year.

David Cook, who lives in Wales, said that he and three other people were heading to England to avoid restrictions.

He tweeted: “No doubt spending a fair bit of cash. I’m sure there will be many more like us.

“English hospitality will benefit. Unfortunately, Welsh hospitality will lose out. Well done, Mr Drakeford.”

Resident Tony Goodman tweeted: “Bristol is about to suffer a total Welsh Invasion on New Years Eve.”

A spokesperson for Avon and Somerset Police confirmed there are no restrictions for people travelling from Wales into the rest of the UK.

They added: “We will have a policing plan in place for New Year’s Eve, as we do every year.”