Celebrations for Chinese New Year

Stunning performances greeted crowds

Thousands gathered in Manchester and Liverpool on Sunday to welcome in the Chinese New Year.

In Manchester, up to five thousand revellers turned out for the departure of the Golden Dragon Parade from Albert Square.

The official opening ceremony took place when it arrived in the heart of the Chinatown in Falkner Square.

There were similar celebrations in Liverpool - where Europe's oldest and biggest Chinatown is located.

Free events and entertainment

Crowds in both cities were treated to a programme of dazzling performances to welcome in the Year of the Monkey.

It was the culmination of months of planning by the Manchester Chinese Cultural and Community Centre.

Entertainment included classical Chinese music, acrobatic displays and Kung Fu and Tai Chi demonstrations by the experts.

The award winning Futian Art Troupe of Shezan, China, also performed.

The Futian Art Troupe are currently touring Europe as part of a Spring Festival programme in 2004.

Around the streets of Chinatown in both cities, there were special stalls and fairground rides, plus the chance to sample the delights of the surrounding restaurants and oriental shops.

In Liverpool there was also an afternoon of free events and entertainment, including fireworks and the traditional lion, unicorn and dragon dance.