London police physically dispersed crowds of drinkers out on Wednesday (November 4), the last night before England went into lockdown.

Police officers had to use force get rid of groups still in the Soho area of central London after 10pm local time, when bars were supposed to close, under existing rules.

Under Thursday's new full-lockdown rules, bars, and most so-called non-essential retail and hospitality businesses, will have to close for all except takeaway business.

Soho and neighbouring Chinatown were packed as Londoners took advantage of their last chance to go out for drinks until December 2.

British police got physical with people drinking out last night before lockdown in Soho today (November 4). Police officers had to use force to disperse groups still hanging around Soho after 10 pm. London’s night life district tonight was packed with people using the last opportunity to be out ahead of the coronavirus lockdown that will last till December 2.