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Santa Arrested: Oxford Street's Pedestrian Past
31 Oct
Summary
- A 1971 protest featured a man dressed as Santa Claus arrested.
- The demonstration aimed to highlight Oxford Street's pollution and danger.
- Decades later, Oxford Street has finally become pedestrianised.
Over fifty years ago, a unique protest on London's Oxford Street culminated in an arrest that is still remembered today. In the early 1970s, John Davey, dressed as Father Christmas, was detained by police during a demonstration aimed at pedestrianising the renowned shopping street.
The protest, which occurred on December 18, 1971, was organised by the Oxford Street Action Committee. Campaigners sought to highlight the dangers of heavy traffic and the significant pollution, with visible exhaust fumes and safety concerns for shoppers. The demonstration involved a symbolic chain across the road, leading to the arrest of John Davey, who was fined £2.
While the protest was brief, its impact resonated through media coverage. Lizzie Davey, John's wife, recalled the brilliant publicity generated by the Santa Claus arrest. Today, with Oxford Street successfully pedestrianised, her daughter Helen believes her father would be pleased with the transformation and the improved environment in London.
