For those insisting upon references, I have already posted two CAA pages which confirm that it is illegal. If that's not good enough for you, then do your own research, and phone the CAA. 01293 567171.
I find it really very telling that PPL students here are the ones defending good airmanship and good safe practice while those trying to defend breaking any rles with wehich they happen to disagree and saying they'll do as they like are (I assmue) qualified PPL's.