insist on drinking in King's Square.

That was the force's warning yesterday to thousands of residents planning to join the Old Town's open-air fun.

Following problems in the past, officers are expected to be giving stern reminders of the law to troublesome partygoers. And Police spokeswoman Sgt.

Roseanda Jones was not ruling out arrests.

"It's not our intention to spoil anybody's New Year celebrations. But we would like to remind the public that drinking in a public place is against the law.

"People have come down there with coolers in the past, and it's OK to do that. But you can't drink alcohol in public. There will be bars and licensed premises all around the square if people really want to have a New Year drink.

"It's really not our intention to be looking for anybody who's drinking in public. Our main concern is that they have a nice time and it's peaceful.'' But Sgt. Jones said Police could not make New Year's Eve an exception to the ban.

"We don't make the law, and if something goes wrong it's going to be seen that the Police didn't do their job.

"I would imagine the officers would more than likely do a lot of warning.

It's not our intention to arrest anyone, but if that has to be done it will be done.'' Parking restrictions tonight would be clearly marked from 6 p.m. to 1 a.m., she added. Water Street would be closed as of 7 p.m. and there would be no parking on Ordnance Island because of the fireworks display there. Police would be on hand to help drivers.

Revellers will be asked for donations towards the St. George's celebrations because companies failed to answer a plea for funds. Organisers sent out 28 requests for sponsorship and got only four replies, Corporation activities chairman Ms Mariea Caisey said yesterday.

"We tried new sponsors this year, thinking give the old ones a break. But only the Bank of Bermuda, the Bank of Butterfield and Esso came through this year. They gave last year.'' Their total contribution of $6,800 left organisers $5,000 short, Ms Caisey said. "Maybe it's the recession.'' This year a donations box would be near the stage. Ms Caisey said the celebration, now four years old, might have to scrap live entertainment next year if enough cash could not be raised.

Tonight's fun starts at 7 p.m. with a DJ spinning old and new hits. Then at 10 p.m. the Island Fever band take over.