Dancing, singing, the awakenings of the lion and traditional entertainment were only a small part of Gravesend's colourful festivities for Chinese New Year.

This year, the theme of celebration is the Rat, a prosperous and lucky year which enables people to show determination regarding their goals, aspiration's, and hobbies.

More than 400 people, including children from local schools, came to the celebrations and performances on Community Square and at The Woodville.

Cllr Shane Mochrie-Cox, Cabinet Member for Community and Leisure said: “I’m glad that we are able to celebrate Chinese New Year as a borough and show what a wonderfully diverse borough we live in."

Traditionally lasting for around two weeks, starting on January, 25, and ending on February, 8, the festival is based on the Chinese Lunar Calendar.

The event was organised in partnership with the Ying Tao Chinese Association and supported by Twin Dynasty Chinese Restaurant.

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