NEW Year's Eve flashbacks from the Oxford Mail's archives have revealed fancy dress parties and the 'tradition' of climbing up a famous statue.

Pictures from decades of the past include revellers repeatedly climbing up Banbury Cross to see in the New Year.

This prompted authorities to board it up on several occasions, but the barrier still did not deter people.

One image shows a policeman on horseback guarding the boarded-up statue, as two men cling onto it behind him.

More civilised celebrations included parties at Carterton Social Centre and the country club in Sandford-on-Thames.