An explosion of cultural colour brightened up a gloomy day as the town celebrated Chinese New Year.

There were grey skies on Wednesday, but a vibrant parade to mark the Chinese Year of The Goat roared into action with the tradition of a lion awaking.

The event was well attended with a crowd of all ages from toddlers and young school children to mums and dads and pensioners.

The beast, made of decorative costume worn by two dancers, awoke on the Community Square, in Gravesend where it received leaves from Gravesham mayor Cllr John Caller and other businesses across the town.

After a dance, which is believed to bring good luck, the lion then returned to The Woodville theatre where further entertainment including traditional Chinese dance performances, could be enjoyed by all.

Musical accompaniment in the parade was supplied by the Shaolin Fists Kung Fu club, who used percussion instruments to add some rhythm to proceedings.

Gravesham council organised the event with other sponsors including Kent Fire and Rescue, Ying Tao Chinese Association, Brilliant Buffet, Twin Dynasty and Win Yip.